SHE CHOSE. Introducing Katie

Katie’s Story.

“Polite people don’t talk about rape. Polite people don’t talk about abuse. Polite people don’t even talk about having enough money to pay their credit cards. So how was I ever going to be able to talk to anyone about the fact that I’m pregnant, can’t have a baby, and need an abortion?”

“I had two abortions with my ex-husband before we got married and had our children. The first was when I was 17, and the second when I was 18. Both terminations happened in times when you just didn’t talk about it. Socially, it wasn’t allowed—you had to keep up appearances. I felt as if I couldn’t talk to anyone and I certainly couldn’t talk to my friends or involve my family.”

“When I was in primary school, I was sexually abused as a child. Later on in high school, I was raped. I was in and out of hospitals for mental health. My abortions didn’t come out as separate incidents. They were something I needed because I’d been through so much. At the time, I just didn’t have the capacity to have a child.”

“The second time I found out I was pregnant, I was living in a hospital. I was cutting myself and I’d been taking pills in an effort to not wake up again. I could have ruined someone’s life and I could have ruined my life as well. I don’t think I’m a bad person for having abortions and nor should I. It’s a medical procedure that I needed. I’m the only one that lives my life. I’m the one that has to live with my decisions.”

“I think I told one friend about the abortions. I just didn’t feel that I could tell anyone else. At that time, you’d go past the Spring Hill abortion clinic and there would be people protesting. I felt that
I couldn’t seek help or ask for support. It was supposed to stay a secret.”

“What’s happening in America is so stupid. I’m waiting for the joke. Why should men ever make decisions for women and their bodies?”

“I would never in a million years tell a guy what to do with his dick. And should I suggest that, it would be appalling. No man should ever tell me what I should do with my body.”

If you have a personal story or find SHE CHOSE. inspiring I’d love to hear from you. You can leave comments below. Stay tuned for the next instalment where I’ll be introducing Kristen.

Thanks for visiting and reading about a project I have been truly passionate about!

G x