I am currently doing a research paper on teen pregnancy. To read the statistics and see how many odds are against me is some what depressing. I read somewhere that babies of teen mothers are more likely to be low birth weight and unhealthy than those born to older mothers.

Well I would just like to say…

Hi,

My name is Tamara and I am 17 years old with daughter who is soon to be 3 months.

I am currently doing a research paper on teen pregnancy. To read the statistics and see how many odds are against me is some what depressing. I read somewhere that babies of teen mothers are more likely to be low birth weight and unhealthy than those born to older mothers.

Well I would just like to say that my daughter (Jaden) was a healthy 7lbs12 oz. when she was born. And now at almost 3 months old she weighs 12lbs. I also read that babies born to teen moms are more likely to be neglected and have less love, well as you can tell by her weight she is not neglected at all, and I love my daughter dearly.

Another thing I would like to mention is that I read about most teen moms dropping out of high-school. Well I am currtently finishing up my senior year and will be completed in January, and from there I plan on going to college to become an RN.

I know there are so many statistics and they can really discourage a person. If there were not so many stereotypes and negative statistics maybe, just maybe the abortion rate would drop. What do you think?

But in my case I want to prove them wrong. And I a not saying all this to brag on myself, I wanted to make a point that there are so many other young ladies out there that are going through what I am going through and beating the odds. I just want to let them know they are not alone.

please reply

Tamara

Dear Tamara,

My name is Julie, and I help Becky answer e-mail for StandUpGirl.com.

Thank you for writing! We love to hear happy success stories – congratulations on your daughter. It sounds like you are doing a great job and really enjoying motherhood. Way to go! I think your letter will encourage a lot of other girls on the site.

I can understand how the statistics can be discouraging. It is important to remember that statistics show very general trends, and do NOT forcast the future of any individual. But they can be helpful: All of us have a kind of game plan for raising our children. Knowing some possible dangers can help us plan to avoid them. As you are showing, it is very possible to beat the statistics and raise a healthy, loved child. I’m sure many who read your letter will be inspired.

Love,
julie | julie@standupgirl.com