by Stacy E., volunteer sidewalk counselor
On Wednesday, September 24, an Uber driver pulling into the St. Paul Planned Parenthood (PP) stopped and took the information I offered him. I asked if he was bringing someone to PP or if he was picking someone up. He replied that he was picking someone up. As I was explaining that this was an abortion facility, the PP escort came out and told him that he was blocking the driveway and he needed to move. The Uber driver hollered to me, “I’m in agreement with you,” as he drove into PP.
He picked up a young woman and came back down the driveway and the young lady rolled down her window and said, “ I didn’t do it,” and she had the biggest smile on her face and was so happy. I repeated what she said and again she said, “I didn’t do it. I saw the ultrasound. “
She said, “Look!” as she showed me her ultrasound. I asked her how far along she was and she replied 19 1/2 weeks. As I continued talking with her, the escort came out and told the Uber driver to move. This time the driver did not comply. He just sat there watching and listening to our whole conversation. The escort walked away and left us alone.
I told the young woman that she had just made the best decision of her life. I asked her if someone had talked to her earlier or helped her and she replied that yes, the previous sidewalk counselor (Gloria) had told her to look at her ultrasound. She asked for another PLAM brochure since the Uber driver kept the one I gave him. I encouraged her to contact PLAM or any of the pregnancy resource centers and assured her that they will help her.
She left with that huge smile still on her face. Thank you God. What a wonderful experience to witness. One sentence saved a little boy’s life.
Report from Gloria H., volunteer sidewalk counselor:
The mother wasn’t able to see me at first as she got out of the Uber (because of the angle) when I began to call out. I believe that is when she turned and made lingering eye contact with me as I continued to speak to her as she walked in. That is when I would’ve said, “Ask to see your ultrasound!” I usually use that phrase at the end when they are walking in.
It was a simple encounter. I actually remember feeling discouraged that she went inside and didn’t come talk to me! At that point, I had no control so I could only pray that the Lord through the Holy Spirit would please help her to change her mind. It was God’s grace. Thanks be to God.
