I was on the patch, and my boyfriend and I used condoms, but I got pregnant anyway. Because of my history of very irregular periods, we did not know that I was pregnant until I was 17 weeks along.

Having access to safe, legal abortion services played a major role in both of our lives almost eight years ago, and it was one of the most difficult decisions I ever had to make for myself. But it was also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made; after my procedure was finished and I sat in the waiting room with several nurses and other women who had also just gotten done with their own procedures, I finally felt at peace. After two weeks of serious discussion with my boyfriend and many shed tears from both of us, I could literally feel a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders, and I cried my first happy tears about the whole situation.

Being forced to carry a baby to term when my boyfriend and I did not have health insurance, full-time jobs, or a regular place to live would have been nearly impossible. My abortion allowed us both to finish school, get good jobs, and nurture our relationship. Now, we’re ready for a family, and we couldn’t be more excited to start one together – but eight years ago was NOT the right time for us.