As the respect life coordinator, I am often asked questions about abortion — how many children have lost their lives through abortion, how were their lives taken, what is embryonic stem cell research about — all tragic topics. However, much less frequently, am I asked about the others injured through abortion — those who lost the child. It may seem odd to think of those who sought an abortion as an injured party, but in fact, they are another tragedy of this epidemic.

Jan Kahle

The most common statement that I have heard from post-abortive women is that “it didn’t feel like I had a choice.” Whether they went to the clinic on their own or were forced to go by someone else, these women felt that abortion was their only option. In their anxiety about their pregnancy or through pressure from others, they saw no other alternative.

As years pass, post-abortive women often reflect back on their decision and attempt to live with the choice made. Recent scientific research shows increased frequencies of depression, anger, addiction, broken relationships and promiscuity in post-abortive women compared to women who have never had an abortion, even in those who have suffered a miscarriage. In correlation with the tearing at the post-abortive woman’s spirituality, she is also physically scarred.

There are many triggers in a post-abortive woman’s life that cause her to reflect back on her decision: what would have been the child’s birthday, classmates, graduation, etc. She may also be reminded of her “choice” when she sees a sign that says, “Choose Life or Pray to End Abortion.” Although she may agree with those statements, they can still be a reminder of her loss.

As horrific as the loss of children’s lives is, the evil of abortion runs even deeper. It kills children, it hurts women, it scars men, it breaks down our whole human family. Any time we decide a life is less than sacred and not a gift from our Creator, we hurt ourselves.

Now is our opportunity to make a choice, and as Catholics the choice is clear. We must support all life: children in the womb, women and men who regret their decision, grandparents and siblings who miss a loved one, all those affected by abortion.

Anyone suffering from abortion can contact Project Rachel personnel for help at 419-260-5811 or ProjectRachel@toledodiocese.org. No one should suffer alone.

Jan Kahle is the respect life coordinator for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Toledo. She may be contacted at jkahle@toledodiocese.org.