Adopted herself, Jessica knew the questions and insecurities that can come with adoption, but also the courage and value for life that permeates the decision. This is something Jessica understands from many angles.

Years ago she made an abortion decision, based on pressure from a past boyfriend as well as her parents. So, when she once again stared at a positive pregnancy test, she describes, “I was happy, upset and scared all at the same time. I fell to the floor in tears.” She proceeded out the door to face the father of this baby. This time, instead of rejection, she was met with the kind arms of a man who would spend the next nine months walking through a decision that would forever change their lives.

The decision wasn’t easy, however, as she was met with her parent’s disapproval of a subsequent pregnancy while still unmarried. Their pressure for her to abort was stronger than ever. What they didn’t understand was that their pressure perpetually re-opened the wound of her previous abortion.

Desperate for help, Jessica turned to WPC and met with a counselor who validated her fears and concerns and told her about the birth mom support program—a network of women either considering or having placed their children for adoption. This counselor remained in her life through the pregnancy and during the difficult time when Jessica gave birth to her son Connor and placed him for adoption. Just a few months later, Jessica officially joined the birth mom support group and still regularly meets with them today!

Adoption was not an easy or pain-free choice, but Jessica made it because of her love for her son, which became the most important thing to her. Seeing him as a happy toddler in a loving family brings indescribable joy.

As she’s continued in the birth mom support group and completed the post-abortion healing study, she’s learned about the healing process, the importance of a loving and safe community of people who understand your pain, and the many tools that lead to restoration and hope. Despite the rejection of her family, the heartbreak from a previous abortion, and the hard decision of adoption, Jessica found hope and healing through the support, resources and relationships at WPC. “I’m turning my life around, embracing new beginnings and I’m passionate about helping others through WPC to do the same.”

Taurian smiles as she recalls her first memories of her father– his arms wide open asking her to come to him. Sadly, however, those same hands did not tuck her in each night, nor did they hold her hand as she walked home from school. Her parents were unable to care for her because they were teens themselves, so she was raised by her grandparents in South Central Los Angeles. When Taurian talks about her life she repeatedly and enthusiastically states: “I’m so blessed.”

Graduating from NYU with a bachelor’s degree, she knew that she wanted to spend her life helping people. Her dedication to serving and fighting for refugees took her to Ghana, Africa. Unfortunately, while she was there, she found herself in desperate need of help. She was 23 years old, pregnant and the baby’s dad was nowhere to be found. She eventually was able to return to the States just in time to give birth to her beautiful daughter, Meridian. Taurian gave birth at home, completely unassisted, and absolutely convinced that the Lord saw her through.

Just two weeks after Meridian was born, Taurian began to search for help within her community. That search led her to WPC, where she not only received the parenting tools and support that she had been desperate for, but also incredible relationships that would see her through this new experience. Her WPC counselor began mentoring her through “mommy-hood”, something she had never truly been on the receiving end of. Her counselor continually expressed a sincere love and care for Taurian and her family and shared her own personal experience, which not only created a space of trust in the relationship but challenged Taurian’s will and ability.

As she continues in the Parenting Support Program, Taurian is learning skills specific to her life and the needs of her baby. In her own words, “My deepest desire is to change the tide of absent parents in the lives of their children. With the help of WPC I have a shoulder to lean on, and believe I can overcome my past circumstances and truly make a difference.” With this new found hope, Taurian is ready for a fresh start and she and her baby girl moved to Paris, France this past fall to start her singing career.

I never intended to receive counseling for my abortions until I was prompted by an associate who had the wisdom to know that I was suffering. I was hesitant to make that first phone call. I did not want to uncover the secret that I thought I had buried so well. When I first called the WPC, my first impression was the remarkable gentleness, kindness, and understanding in the woman’s voice. She explained to me what the abortion recovery program would be like. I decided at that moment to commit myself to the healing process. I needed to take a look at myself.