Studying Abroad and Pregnant

I arrived in Vancouver as an international student. Shortly after, I found out I was two months pregnant with my daughter. I went to talk to the father of the baby right away. He offered to support me and take me to the doctor. However he didn't keep his word and never did take me to the clinic even though he said he would.

After 5 months, I finally realized that he is not going to help me at all. I knew that I had to do something myself since my baby was going to arrive, and was not going to wait. I looked on the internet and found Crisis Pregnancy Centre's phone number and made an appointment.

This was a difficult time for me as I began to talk about how to have a baby here and at this time of my life. I was emotionally unstable at that time as I was facing an unplanned pregnancy, language and cultural differences, no medical insurance or BC care and had no one who could support me. All of my family was in Japan.

At the Crisis Pregnancy Centre

When I went to CPC the first time I met a peer counsellor who is also Japanese. I was able to share my story and felt her warmth and care as she listened to me. I got the Medical Services Plan by following information and advice that she gave me. Finally I went to the hospital for the first time when I was 7 months pregnant.

Since the first time I went to CPC, I felt listened to and care for in my situation. Because I had no one who could support me during labor and delivery, my peer counsellor came along with me to take a child birth class that the CPC offered. She also came and supported me through my whole labor. After my daughter was born, the CPC has continued to support me emotionally and mentally but not only that, they also provide my baby daughter's clothes and diapers now.

Currently I am spending my time as a single mother raising my child. I am really thankful that I am smiling and living with my daughter now because of CPC's caring support. If there is someone who is like me, I would like to introduce the centre to her. I believe that the presence of the Crisis Pregnancy Centre is essential to community.

I would like to thank to all the volunteers and staff that have supported me through my pregnancy and now as my daughter grows.

Editors Note:

Facing an unplanned pregnancy is a time when community and support from those around you is so important. It is wonderful to hear that others were able to come alongside you on this journey, especially with your family being so far away. Thank you for sharing your story.