I never intended to have a voice. I never intended to have something to say. I am simply a woman…a wife…a mother of three children…one that lives with mental illness… and two daughters. Not much different than most or special in any way. But, I do have something to say…

My daughter said to me this week after the over-turn of Roe vs. Wade…”Mom, I do not understand why some feel they can take away the rights of others? Aren’t we all human first? Therefore, we are all equal…and shouldn’t all have equal choice?”

It saddens me to know that my girls will come of age with fewer rights than their mother. There is no pro-life in a matter that suppresses millions of American women and creates real consequences that endanger many. And, sadly, a decision that creates even greater division amongst us.

And if you think my opinions unqualified… I lost a baby at nearly 20 weeks…I understand the pain and loss of that missed life every day. A little boy buried with a name. Henry.

I am pro-life…my daughters and every other woman/girl that deserves the right to make choices about her life…her reproductive health…her body. I am pro-life because I am pro-choice. Pro-life does not exist without love, respect and freedom of choice.

My girls will always have a choice. I will not let them grow up believing anything different. In addition, I will teach my children that never in an effort to protect a belief should we suppress another. Never.

And how does this blog relate to emotional and mental health? It doesn’t…but it does…for every woman and girl…in every way.