by Lynn Benson, Sidewalk Ministry Coordinator
On Monday, August 3, at about 11:00 a.m. during the change of sidewalk counseling shifts at the Uptown Planned Parenthood (PP), Cheresa B., Joe U., and Annie K. were near the driveway with me. In rapid succession, three abortion clients entered the parking lot.
By God’s grace, they all received the literature, even with PP escorts on duty. The first car had a family with dad driving, mom in the passenger seat and toddler in the back. I asked if they were there regarding a pregnancy. The woman replied, “Yes, I’m 5 weeks along and I’m really scared. I don’t know what to do.”
I empathized with them and said, “I understand this is a difficult situation you’re in. We would like to offer you some free help. Would you consider getting an ultrasound and taking more time to make your decision? We would like to help you make a decision without regrets.” I don’t recall that I got a definitive answer on that by the time the escort was rushing them into the parking lot.
The last thing I told them was, “Please read this in your car and come talk with us.”
There was a lot of activity going on so I don’t recall how long until they pulled out of the parking lot. Annie K. spoke with them and they said they had changed their mind. She congratulated them and gave encouraging words to them. They re-parked across the street and went into the Alpha Women’s Center van which was parked next to PP. Later I saw them getting into their car. I met them as they were driving away to find out how they were doing and where they were at in their decision. I introduced myself and learned their names.
She said she was still scared but she knew she would be grateful when the baby was born. She knew it wouldn’t be the right thing to kill the baby. She showed me a picture of the ultrasound which showed her embryo baby as a small dot on the picture. She said she was able to hear the baby’s heartbeat. I got her phone number and recommended a pregnancy resource center in their area to get further support close to home.
I asked if our presence there had helped them change their minds and she affirmed that it did. I gave her a “Loved” onesie as a gift. When she saw it, her face was softened with a smile. “The first outfit for coming home!” she said with gratitude.
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