People of First Care: Emilie’s Story

I was just a freshman in college when I found out I was pregnant. I was a high achiever with a plan for my life, which did not include getting pregnant and parenting.

When I found out, I was in total shock. I told my parents and they were as shocked as I was. They were a little bit disappointed, but very supportive.

Making a Decision

My first meeting with one of the staff at First Care sticks out to me. We spent a lot of time talking about how I was feeling, what I was thinking, what I was concerned about.

I’m wired by nature to want to know the information and make a plan and stick to the plan.

Instead, my time at First Care caused me to dig into what was going on in my head and heart: what I wanted, what I was scared about, what I imagined for my future and how my options fit into that.

First Care provided me with helpful information and long term goals to think about.  As I thought through my options, I did consider adoption, but ultimately realized I wanted to raise my child. I knew I could do it because there was support available, even if my relationship with the baby’s father was complicated and difficult.

Finding Support in Parenting

After I made my decision, I enrolled in their parenting program called Every Family and attended once a week throughout my pregnancy.

Through this program, I was able to learn about healthy development and growth. I was also able to meet with Parenting Coaches who were genuinely interested in my life and how I was doing. This program helped me feel less anxious about becoming a mother and it also provided me with practical items, such as diapers and clothes for my baby.

My son was born in May of 2015 and being his mom has been absolutely awesome.  It hasn’t been without hardship, but the joys have far outweighed the hard days.

Since then, I graduated from the parenting program after two years in the program. I finished college with two degrees and I married the love of my life, a man who has been a part of my son’s life since he was four months old. 

First Care is a safe place to talk about how you are feeling and thinking and not have to worry about everyone’s opinion.  There really is no judgment or pressure. I am so thankful for my experience there and for being able to be a mom.

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