Kiesha's Story

I'm 18 years old and finding out that I was pregnant was the most devastating thing that could have ever happened to me.

I just graduated high school in June and right after that broke up with my boyfriend of 5 months. Two weeks later I took a test and found out what I feared most. Telling him was the worst. I was so scared of how he would react and what he would want me to do. I had already made up my mind that I was going to have an abortion. When I told him, he agreed and was there for me throughout this nightmare. It even brought us closer and we started seeing each other again.

I knew I couldn't tell my parents and I didn't. I made the appointment and went and had it done. My boyfriend couldn't be there but one of my friends went with me. I was so relieved when it was done. I spent the next 2 weeks until my checkup hoping that everything was all right and I went yesterday and it was. I cried looking at the negative test he gave me. I cried out of happiness, not sadness.

Me and my boyfriend talked about it last night and I told him that I am relieved it's gone but a part of my heart aches for that baby. I could not have raised it nor provided it with what it needed most-love. I thought from the beginning it was the baby I hated. Now, I have come to realize it was the situation.

I have no regrets about what I did. The time in my life which I'm entering now is not the time to be raising a child. I'll always remember my first baby though and I hope between mine and my boyfriend's hearts it will live on forever.

Keisha
11 August 1999