DEAR CHRISTINE,
I AM 17 YEARS OLD and just discovered that I am pregnant. I do not know how to handle this pregnancy at all. I am yet to tell my mother who lives overseas, and my aunt. I live with my aunt and her ten-year-old son.
My friend who got me pregnant is 20 years old and he is telling me about having an abortion.
I am scared to do this since I’ve been told of a young girl who went to have an abortion and died.
I want to continue my education (I have already left school) and I am very sorry that I went and got myself into this trouble so early in life. I know I will have to face up to this responsibility and look after this child, whom I am not so willing to give up despite what my boyfriend says.
I do not believe that having an abortion is the right thing to do. I have always been taught to value life, and this child has a right to live. What advice can you give me?
– R.C.
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Dear R.C.,
The first thing you’ll have to do at this point is to tell your aunt and your mother about your pregnancy. You can let both of them know that it was never your intention to become pregnant in the first place and that you are sorry about the situation.
You seem to have made up your mind to have this child, despite the advice given by your boyfriend, and I admire you for making that decision. In fact, at the end of the day, the decision is yours to make.
After speaking with your family, even if they show disappointment initially, I am sure they will give you the support you need.
I would also advise you to continue your education at any cost. This will be vital to your future.
Trust God to see you through as you face this new challenge in your life.
– CHRISTINE
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