I was the youngest of four in a home with sadness, fight and drugs. I desired affection and focus from everyone. Though my parents stayed married, we had meals, and I still felt lost. At the age of 12, I started using drugs, consuming alcohol, sneaking out, and making unwise decisions. I even controlled a psychologist to obtain what I desired from my parents.
At 13, following a disagreement with my mom, I damaged a dresser and smashed a mirror. The authorities were contacted. The officer who took me to the hospital was kind and gentlemen; I still remember that. In the hospital, I found out that I was pragmatic.
I felt frightened, embarrassed, and did not want to confront my family. The majority advised me to have an abortion, except for my mom and aunt, who supported my decision to choose life or adoption.
Eight grade was really hard. I got sick in the morning, got judged by others, and often felt alone. So I switch to homeschooling next year although there was pressure, I still could not go through having an abortion. My mother supported me and said it is a good decision.
I eliminated all unhealthy habits and concentrated on maintaining a healthy pregnancy. With my family support, I choose to keep my baby and work together for a better future for both of us.
At 32 weeks of pregnancy, I began experiencing cramps that were actually contractions. My mother rushes to the hospital and stayed with me the whole time. I planned to get an epidural, but the baby came so fast, there was not time. The pain was overwhelming, and I really felt and thought that I was going to die any minute.
I became a mother at the age of 14 when I had my daughter. She was born early and taken to the NICU; she needed a ventilator to survive. Before her leaving the room, I kissed her. She stayed in hospital for four weeks. My mom was always there for me.
Later, we found out my daughter has a brain cyst from lack of oxygen and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.We visit many doctor appointments, therapy meetings, and checkups. My mom took us to every one. People used to share us because I was a young mother and my daughter was different, but my mom always stood by me and never let me face it alone.
She even got up during the night to assist in feeding my daughter, who was struggling to eat. She helped me to get healed and let me start my social life back. My mother provided us with both financial and emotional support. Even when I rebelled, sneaking out, doing drugs and taking her car, she still believed me and never said a word.
My mother is the main reason I never want to give up my baby. Her love motivated me.Now my daughter is 14 years old, happy, healthy and full of life. She is not similar to how I was when I was her age.
Being a single and young mom is still hard, but with my mother’s emotionally support and love have made it different. I never feel regrets. I am forever thankful to God. And I love her so much.
