(CASE STUDY TESTIMONY)

I was 17 when I became pregnant.  I wanted to have the child but my boyfriend threatened me. 

I was also terrified of the reaction of my father.  I was in a small town and didn't know where to turn.  I opened the phone book to Planned Parenthood as that was the only name I had heard of.

 I received no counseling before the abortion; very little information was given. 

I asked about the development of the child and was ignored; the issue was sidestepped. 

I wanted alternatives and was told in many different ways that this was my only option, that it was best for everyone unless I wanted to ruin my life.

The abortion was horrible; I was in no way prepared for the experience. 

There was no concern or compassion; the doctor was just in and out. 

But it changed me forever. 

I knew immediately that I had done something horrible. 

After the abortion I started drinking.  All though college, I drank, experimented with drugs and ran from the pain.  I was severely bulimic, after being anorexic for about a year. 

My attitude toward men changed.  I became cold and untrusting, and was unable for years to maintain a steady relationship. 

I was also angry at my parents for not having made me feel that I could approach them.

About ten years later I sought counseling for my eating disorders--I was on the verge of suicide/mental breakdown.

It was at that time that I discovered that the root of my problems was the abortion. 

It changed me from a happy, bubbly girl into a depressed, angry, hurting woman...

[THE ELLIOT INSTITUTE NEWS Vol.2, No. 3 -- April 8, 2004, http://www.AfterAbortion.Info]