(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]