Displaying items by tag: babies go to congress

Samantha once pictured a perfect life—girl meets boy, they fall in love, get married, and raise a family behind a white picket fence. But her story took a different turn. After leaving an abusive relationship and struggling with alcohol, she moved back home to start over. A month later, she found herself on the bathroom floor, staring at two pink lines in disbelief. Within an hour, her parents knew. While they reassured her, she could only think, “This can’t be happening.”

A week later, her mother brought her to Hand of Hope Pregnancy Center. Samantha walked in with her head down, wishing it were all a mistake. But Stacey greeted her with warmth and reminded her that even if she didn’t feel okay now, one day she would. Stacey patiently talked and prayed with her until Samantha found the courage to see her baby on the ultrasound for the first time, a moment that began to change everything.

Through the women at Hand of Hope, Samantha rediscovered faith, peace, and purpose. They didn’t promise that motherhood would be easy; instead, they promised to walk beside her. Their love redefined strength for her, not in control or survival but in surrender and trust in God.

On April 4, 2025, Samantha welcomed her daughter, Zoey Grace—“a new life by grace.” Now a year sober, she continues visiting Hand of Hope each week, grateful for the family and faith that helped her turn fear into hope and pain into purpose.

In 2013, Shawnte found herself facing one of the hardest moments of her life: pregnant with her third child and abandoned by the baby’s father when she refused to have an abortion. Feeling lost and unsure of where to turn, she didn’t know that hope was already waiting just around the corner.

Her mother had unknowingly scheduled what she thought was an abortion appointment, but instead, Shawnte met someone who offered a different path, one that saved not only her baby’s life but her own. Through that encounter, she was introduced to Mary’s Shelter, a maternity home that surrounded her with love, stability, and faith when she needed it most.

On July 27, 2014, Shawnte welcomed her beautiful daughter, Bella, into the world. Today, Shawnte is an ordained minister whose experience at Mary’s Shelter continues to inspire her work. Now contracted through the court system, she helps women in similar situations find the support and strength they need to keep their children. What began as a moment of fear has become a powerful testimony of redemption, courage, and God’s grace.

When Katee first found out she was pregnant, she was just a sophomore in high school. Unsure of what to do and afraid to tell her parents, she carried the secret for months before finally opening up. That moment of honesty began a journey that would change her life forever.

Her mom brought her to Bella Vita Pregnancy Center, where Katee found compassion, encouragement, and the strength to face her fears. Surrounded by support, she began taking classes at the center and learned she didn’t have to walk this road alone.

“They didn’t make me feel less of a mom because I was so young,” she said.

Just two weeks after telling her parents, Katee went into preterm labor and delivered her son, Greyson, at only 25 weeks. The months that followed were filled with long nights in the NICU, but also with faith and perseverance. Through it all, Katee grew closer to God and discovered a new kind of bravery that would shape her as both a mom and a young woman.

Now a senior in High School, Katee is thriving. She’s continued her education, reached the state tournament in girls’ wrestling, and is preparing for another season. Most importantly, she’s raising a happy, healthy little boy who inspires her every day.

Katee wants other young women to know that life doesn’t end with an unexpected pregnancy — it’s just beginning. “I have learned so much and have become stronger because of Greyson, my son. My goals have pretty much stayed the same. The only difference is...I have Greyson.”

When Valencia first called the Confidential Care Mobile Ministry hotline, she thought she was scheduling an abortion. What she didn’t realize was that this one phone call would completely change her life. Within just a week of talking and visiting with the caring team at CCMM, Valencia made a courageous choice — she chose life.

What began as a call to end a pregnancy became a call that brought hope, strength, and new life, not only for Valencia but for all those touched by her story.

On July 27, 2022, she welcomed her beautiful daughter, Kennedi, into the world, a precious reminder of God’s grace and the power of love.

Today, Valencia and Kennedi share their story to encourage others, hoping to shine the same light that CCMM once shared with them. “The call to end life turned into the call that gave life,” Valencia says. “And it’s a light we now want to pass on.”

ANAHI'S STORY

Elias — Born October 2022

When I was 19, I found out I was pregnant. I was already working two jobs and working long hours each day while attending college. I escaped from my abusive parents at 17 and have been couch-hopping ever since with no real sense of stability. At the time I found out I was pregnant, I was sharing a bed with a friend and her dog, lacking the stability and space I so desperately needed for my baby.

In my desperation, I turned to my son's father despite the toxic nature of our relationship. It felt like my only option, leaving me feeling more trapped than ever. I desperately wanted a family for my son, so I stayed even when everything told me to leave. Things took a turn for the worse when he started physically hurting me.

The months that followed were filled with more ups and downs, and when it was time for me to give birth, the situation was so bad that security had to kick him out of the hospital. I had to go through the process of giving birth alone.

It was torture being at that apartment, continuing to endure the physical and emotional abuse. 

It broke my heart knowing my innocent baby was on his way to the path that I was on as a child. I felt like such a failure.

Amid this darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged when a friend told me about Thrive. Without hesitation, I applied. Thrive provided a sanctuary where I could reclaim my education and create a safe and stable environment for my son. Because of the unwavering love and care of everyone at Thrive, I have begun to truly heal in the present and from the scars of my past.

When I think of how much I have grown from my past, it has opened my eyes to the stark reality that the absence of resources for women in situations like mine not only creates hopelessness but also continues the mindset that abuse is acceptable and for that, I am grateful that Thrive exists. It has played a pivotal role in breaking the toxic cycle that once enslaved my son and me.

Thrive gave me hope for a better future and the strength and support to break free from abuse, and it has empowered me to help others who are going through similar situations. Thrive is more than just a shelter; it's a lifeline that transforms lives and shows the incredible resilience of the human spirit.

KENDRA'S STORY

Ella — Born September 2022 

Kendra Morgan, a freshman in college, discovered she was pregnant but initially kept it a secret, grappling with the decision of abortion due to a past assault. Despite her resolve to handle it alone, her mother intervened upon learning the truth from a friend. Reluctantly, Kendra agreed to visit a pregnancy center where she met a compassionate mentor.

Despite remaining abortion-minded, she attended an ultrasound at 8 weeks and witnessed the tiny form of her unborn child. Despite her reservations, Kendra found herself gradually deciding to keep the baby, buoyed by the support of her loved ones and the encouragement from Open Door.

Throughout her pregnancy, Kendra struggled with fear and shame, concealing her situation from others. However, the unwavering support she received allowed her to navigate the challenges and embrace motherhood when her daughter, Ella, was born. Contrary to her initial worries, Kendra was overwhelmed with love and joy upon holding Ella for the first time.

Balancing motherhood with her ambitions, Kendra joined the college cheer team when Ella was just 10 months old, concurrently pursuing her education and embarking on a career as a daycare teacher. Reflecting on her journey, Kendra expressed deep gratitude for the assistance and guidance provided by Open Door, acknowledging that without their support, she might have struggled profoundly. Ultimately, Kendra found fulfillment in being Ella's mother, believing that her daughter has a profound purpose and eagerly anticipating the ongoing transformation she brings into her life.

KAYLA'S STORY

Maverick — Born May 2022

In Boerne, at the Hill Country Pregnancy Care Center, Kayla Sunny found the vital support she needed to navigate her journey as a mother to Maverick. From the moment she walked through the center's doors, Kayla was met with compassion and guidance.

Initially unsure of her options, Kayla found reassurance through the caring staff who provided invaluable information and support, allowing Kayla to make informed choices about her pregnancy. Their prayers and unwavering presence offered Kayla comfort and strength during uncertain times. 

As Kayla prepared for Maverick's arrival, the center's programs, notably the Earn While You Learn initiative, became invaluable resources. Through this program, Kayla earned baby bucks, which she used to acquire essential items for Maverick's care, ensuring he had everything he needed from the very beginning.

Despite the challenges of Maverick's premature birth, Kayla remained resilient, supported by the center's prayers and encouragement. Through it all, the Hill Country Pregnancy Care Center stood as a pillar of support, providing Kayla with the tools and resources she needed to care for Maverick and navigate the early days of motherhood with confidence.

As Maverick grew and thrived, Kayla's gratitude for the center's services only deepened. With each milestone, from Maverick's first steps to his first birthday, Kayla found herself surrounded by the love and support of the Pregnancy Care Center community, a testament to the profound impact of their care and services on her journey as a mother.

ELIZABETH'S STORY

Evelyn — Born January 2024

Elizabeth found herself unexpectedly pregnant with Evelyn after a brief reunion with Ben, her ex-partner. With Ben already moved out and their relationship strained, Elizabeth faced the daunting prospect of single motherhood. Despite her initial excitement, doubts from family and friends left her feeling unsupported and unsure.

Seeking guidance, Elizabeth turned to Planned Parenthood but found little solace there. Pressured into a pill abortion, she regretted her decision immediately upon receiving a text from Ben expressing his desire to keep the baby. Frantically searching for hope, she discovered abortion pill reversal (APR) and reached out for help.

With the support of Ben and a network of compassionate individuals, including the Abortion Pill Rescue Network, Elizabeth embarked on the journey of reversing the abortion. Through this process, she witnessed the resilience of her unborn child and the unwavering support of her community.

As weeks passed, Elizabeth and Ben embraced parenthood, attending counseling sessions together and witnessing the miracle of their daughter's life unfold through regular sonograms at their local pregnancy center. The experience not only strengthened their bond but also reaffirmed Elizabeth's belief in the importance of APR in providing second chances to women facing similar crises.

On January 18th, 2024, Elizabeth gave birth to Evelyn, a vibrant testament to love and resilience. With their daughter in their arms, Elizabeth and Ben found solace in their newfound family unit, planning a future together filled with love and commitment with a fall wedding in the works.

Elizabeth's journey underscored the profound impact of APR in preserving life and offering hope to families in crisis. With a newfound sense of purpose, she vowed to advocate for the preservation of programs like APR, ensuring that every woman facing a difficult decision receives the support and resources she needs to choose life.

 View Elizabeth's story HERE!

EVALYNN'S STORY

Hezekiah — Born October 2021

Born to a crack-addicted and alcoholic mother, Evalynn was removed from her mother’s custody at the age of only 10. She had her first abortion at 19 and at 24 she almost died from a second abortion that led to her having an emergency D&C three days later.

At the age of 30, she found herself pregnant out of wedlock again.

“I was already a single mother of a 3-year-old and I was attempting to finish my Bachelor’s degree. I had no idea how I was going to support myself, two children, and finish college.”

Evalynn felt alone as the father of her baby was encouraging her to have an abortion and she had no one else to support her. Not knowing if she was going to choose to have an abortion or keep the baby, she reached out to the Women's Center of Ohio for an ultrasound.

That ultrasound changed her entire life, as it made the pregnancy real to her and empowered her to choose life for her baby! That choice also led to choosing life for herself as two months after that she surrendered her life to Jesus Christ.

Today, baby Hezekiah is a year old. Evalynn earned her bachelor’s degree and then married shortly after!

“In this age, the world tells women that to be happy and to have a successful life we must abort our unborn babies. That is the furthest thing from the truth! I have never lived a life that is so fulfilled physically, mentally, and spiritually. God used this baby's life to save mine and I am forever grateful!”

Support the efforts of pregnancy help organizations today so that moms like Evalynn are encouraged and equipped to choose life for their little ones.

Baby Hezekiah

DANIELLE'S STORY

At 20 years old, Danielle was terrified to find herself staring at two pink lines on a pregnancy test. She was immersed in a world of drugs, alcohol and risky behavior that she used to numb the pain of years of abuse and assault.

“I knew that I was carrying life - that it wasn’t just me anymore,” she said, “but I had no money, and my family refused to support me.”

That is when found a local maternity home, the Paul Stefan Foundation. It was here when she was welcomed with open arms and spent the next five years learning valuable life skills and gaining the education needed to get a good job for herself and her growing baby girl.

Danielle describes those years as the “hardest of my entire life, but they transformed me and my future in an incredible way.” She has remained involved with the home ever since, and today she serves her community as a foster care social worker in the Virginia Department of Social Services.

“So many women resort to abortion because they think it’s their only option, or that their baby will hinder their goals. I wish I could comfort those women, and tell them how keeping my baby motivated me to achieve every single goal that I set my mind on. I’d tell them that I named my daughter Lei’Lani, which means royal child of heaven. Why? I tell anyone who will listen – God sent her to me to save my life.”

Support the efforts of pregnancy help organizations today so that moms like Danielle are encouraged and equipped to choose life for their little ones. 

Lei'Lani and Danielle