Recently, I met with Anne*, a client determined to have an abortion. With a 3-year-old child at home, Anne said she was not ready for another child. Sadly, Anne had chosen to abort a previous pregnancy just a few months earlier. She had used RU486 (the abortion pill) that resulted in some complications requiring a follow-up surgical abortion. As we met, Anne expressed concern about how a second abortion so soon would cause complications for her. I could see the emotion on her face as we discussed her options. Anne was convinced that she “had” to have an abortion.

Anne’s partner Mike* waited in the reception area where one of our male volunteers had the opportunity to talk with him. He seemed to be disengaged and didn’t want to talk. After the pregnancy test was completed, Mike joined Anne but didn’t participate in the conversation. Mike is both the father of the aborted child and the father of the child being discussed now. Mike didn’t make eye contact and seemed willing to leave the decision up to Anne.

I wrapped up the appointment, feeling like there was nothing I could do or say that would help them to see that this child had value. This couple had already experienced an abortion with complications but seemed determined to abort again. I set them up for an ultrasound, waited, and prayed that God would intervene, and they would choose life.

*clients names changed