I was at a point in my life where I was not close to my family at all. I worked as a server at a restaurant and my co-workers were my family. I had been in a serious relationship for about 4 months when my boyfriend decided to break it off suddenly, leaving me devastated. At that same time, my male best friend had a falling out with his fiance and they called everything off. Since we were both dealing with the same thing we became even closer and began seeing each other.

Hi, my name is Taryn and I got pregnant with my son when I was 19 years old. I had gone through 2 semesters of college when I decided to take some time off. I was at a point in my life where I was not close to my family at all. I worked as a server at a restaurant and my co-workers were my family. I had been in a serious relationship for about 4 months when my boyfriend decided to break it off suddenly, leaving me devastated. At that same time, my male best friend had a falling out with his fiance and they called everything off. Since we were both dealing with the same thing we became even closer and began seeing each other. 
     
One week after her decided it would be best to go back with her (they had a child together) I found out I was pregnant. I couldn’t breathe. I mean I was working two jobs and had just gone through two heartbreaks. I had just gotten the motivation to return to school. I never saw this coming and it hit me like a train. It took me 2 weeks to tell my family (I had been raised in a very small private Christian school and this is NOT what they wanted to hear). Surprisingly, they took it amazingly well and comforted me. Then I told the baby’s father, which didn’t go as well. He said he wanted nothing to do with us and that I needed to get an abortion. The thought crossed my mind but was gone as quickly as it came. I didn’t want an abortion, not because of how I was raised but just because in my heart I knew it’s not what I wanted.

I haven’t had any contact with my child’s father since I told him I was pregnant. We receive no support from him and I have never pursued it. I guess my reasoning is that I didn’t want someone involved in my son’s life that didn’t feel like it was a privilege to be there. I moved into my parents home until my son was one. I am a very strong and independent person and it was hard for me to admit that I needed the help, but one of the best decisions that I could have made. I figured out that there are many positions as a nanny that will allow me to bring my son along and now am supporting myself in my own apartment. I also am back in school and pursuing a degree in nursing ( I would like to become a Certified Nurse Midwife, I was inspired by my son’s birth). Last but not least, I met an amazing man when my son was 10 months old. He has taught me so much and been patient while I healed from all of this. Best of all, he loves my son like his own and plans to adopt him. We are getting married this September! 
   
So now at 22, I am far from having all of the answers. I’m fine with that. Having Caleb was the best thing I have done with my life and has given me a since of direction that I never had before. I just wanted to encourage all those amazing and brave women who are facing similar situations, it does get better. Those little toes and sweet, sticky kisses make it all worthwhile.I promise.

Love,

Taryn
Age 22
Denver, CO

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Hi Taryn,

My name is April and I help Becky answer emails.

Thank you very much for emailing and sharing your story. I meant a lot to me. You truly are very courageous and strong. Having to move back in and ask your parents for help is only a testament to your courage and strength. It takes a really wise and humble person to know when to ask for help. You should be proud of yourself. I’m proud of you. That is what being a Stand Up Girl is all about.

I am so glad that you did not choose abortion, and I’m sure that you, never for a minute, regretted your decision to choose your child.

Your child sounds absolutely amazing and is lucky to have a mom like you. Please continue on in your pursuit of school. You are a great example of how women can have a child and reach their goals.

Love,

April |