|
I have grieved for 30 years over placing my baby who I conceived at 16. Had there been any small act of support on the part of my family, things may have turned out differently. They had "other" plans for my life...college, etc, and I was shunned by them when I attempted to raise my child, all financial help was cut off (even though they were more than financially able to help), and I was left either homeless or in the adoption attorney's office. No, they did not force me, but they saw to it that adoption was the only alternative. College? No, because I was an emotional cripple for the next 2 years. College didn't happen until I was in my 30's.
On the flip side, after getting my life on track, I got married and had 3 more children. My oldest was a cheerleader, honor roll student, and had a great life ahead of her...then she got pregnant and had a child at 16. We pulled through it together. Her daughter (my grandchild) is 12 years old now, and a delight to all of us. She is an excellent student, wonderful person, and when I look at her and the awesome job my daughter has done in raising her, I am very proud.
My daughter had to put a lot on hold in order to be a teenage mother, but I disagree with Royalcav's statement that no teenager is able to raise a child. It's all about the support they are able to glean from folks that love them.
Best wishes in the decision.
Debra
|