I am sharing two very personal stories in the name of visibility and in support of those who can’t do the same. MEN: it is important for you, amidst all this talk about defunding Planned Parenthood, to understand how the women in your life rely on organizations like these, and how that affects you in turn.

The first time I visited a Planned Parenthood I was 16. I went for Plan B after a condom had failed. Because my public school system offered comprehensive sex education, I knew my options. I also knew I could get Plan B without permission from my parents. As it happens, my parents would have been supportive and understanding, but that’s certainly not true for everyone. In my case, not NEEDING my parent’s consent meant one less incredibly stressful step to getting the care I needed. And hey guess what, I didn’t become a teen mom.

The second time, I was in my mid-twenties and unexpectedly pregnant. I was in a loving relationship, had income, a place to live, and health care. But I was not ready to be a parent. I was aware of my pregnancy at a very early stage and again, I knew my options. I weighed the decision seriously and ultimately chose to have a medical abortion. I understood the heaviness of my choice and gave reverence to it, but I did not experience regret or devastation. I think about it from time to time, mostly with an overwhelming feeling that I made the right choice.

I am over the shame and stigma of sharing these ordinary stories. OVER IT. This organization allowed me, as a young woman, to have autonomy over my body, my health, and my future.

There are so many people with stories like mine, and more importantly, there are so many more who rely on Planned Parenthood for primary care, preventative care, and low-cost contraception. These people are in your circles! And their invisibility makes this a much less real-world issue to those who don’t have personal experience.

I share my story because I am lucky enough to be able to do so without fear of jeopardizing my job, my family, or my most important relationships. I hope more people share stories of the ways in which Planned Parenthood has helped and supported them, while also understanding that the right to remain anonymous is an important choice that must also be protected.

#NormalizePlannedParenthood