“I Was Once You” Series: Lisa’s Story

Does time heal the emotions suffered by a past abortion? This week, Lisa* tells her story of how time did not “fix” her emotional turmoil following an abortion but, instead, caused her to experience a grief that “just kept growing” over time. She explains that through a combination of a personal faith journey and completing the Restore Program, she was able to have a “life of freedom and joy.”

“I was once you.  I was once walking in your shoes and now have freedom from the bondage that post abortion pain can bring. Let me share a bit. Following my abortion, I thought I would feel relief and freedom and move on with my life. That feeling might have been there for a short while, however, I was soon overwhelmed by feelings of panic, bad dreams, grief, anger and shame. I began to engage in behaviors to avoid thinking about what I had done and trying to find anything to fill a hole I now had in my heart. I had an eating disorder, avoided close relationships, and wounded relationships I had. I tried to be perfect in school and in other people’s eyes. Time did not heal it.

The grief just kept growing. I eventually turned to the Bible and learned there is forgiveness and healing available from God through Jesus Christ. My eyes were opened to a whole new kind of love. A love for me in the midst of my pain and shame, not only after I became perfect, but a love and forgiveness right where I was at. That began my journey of healing. It was a journey that took time, prayer, and people God placed in my life. It wasn’t always easy, but it was so worth it.

A few years later, I found the Restore After Abortion program. The leaders were so supportive and kind. They listened and shared their own stories of healing. They helped me grieve my loss. They helped me see that I’m not alone on this journey. They gave me a safe space to talk about my experience and understand the emotions I was feeling. Week by week, step by step, a weight was being lifted. I was smiling more. I was connecting with people again. I felt whole again.

I found healing in Jesus and the Restore Program helped uncover layers of emotions I had stuffed down deep. I know the journey can feel scary but hope and healing is available for you. One step at a time. You don’t have to do it alone. If that emotional pain from a previous abortion sounds familiar, reach out and take that first step. You don’t have to stay in that place of pain. I know you, too, can have a life of freedom and joy.” — Lisa*, 36

Restore helps those for whom the lingering effects of abortion continue to cause pain. We provide free confidential post-abortion care and support services to all individuals. Restore After Abortion serves DuPage County, Illinois and surrounding communities. Please call today for a free, confidential consultation.

*Name has been changed for confidentiality purposes.