‘Hard’ Doesn’t Always Mean ‘Bad’

Case Managing Session with Abrey Santos, Client Services Associate

When Tamara* walked through our doors, she was stressed about the possibility of being pregnant. Tamara has had two abortions previously and finances were tight. Her Case Manager helped her identify support she has in place already, discussed possible emotional consequences of another termination, encouraged her to talk to her family members, and pointed her toward some helpful resources.

Medical Session with Arsi Karakashian, Nurse Manger

During Tamara’s* ultrasound, I took the time to let her see her baby and its heartbeat so that she could have a true understanding of this new life that was growing inside her. After the ultrasound, she mentioned feeling "less stressed." She was still undecided about her pregnancy, stating that she was "50/50" in her decision. As she shared with me the difficulty about the option of parenting, I said "Yes, parenting can be challenging. As a parent myself, I understand the sacrifices it requires. However, 'hard' does not always mean 'bad.' Something can be difficult yet still good.” I assured her that we are here to support her, and she expressed gratitude for the care she received at Open Arms.



Follow-up Appointment with Kim Flickinger, Volunteer Case Manager

Tamara* came to her follow-up appointment indicating she had made the decision to parent. Following her first appointment at Open Arms, she determined to talk with her boyfriend about their options. Today she happily stated they were in agreement to move forward with parenting and was feeling "pretty confident" of her decision.

Tamara shared, when she first came to the clinic she had been under a lot of stress from various situations, and that stress had influenced her thinking. At this appointment, she indicated she had calmed down and was feeling better about parenting this child. I commended Tamara for not making such an important decision impulsively while her emotions were heightened. I reviewed Open Arms’ Parenting+ Program with her, showed her the Baby Closet, and then arranged her first Parenting+ appointment for her. Tamara has been faithfully attending the classes and enjoying much-needed baby items from the closet. Her baby is due this Fall.