Parents Open Up About Their Heart-Wrenching Late-Term Abortion Experience to Raise Awareness

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The Carters felt compelled to share their story after hearing misconceptions during a political debate. “When I heard the remarks about late-term abortions, I went into a panic attack. It was shocking to realize how many people genuinely believe those things,” Jamie told BuzzFeed Health. Understanding the power of education, she decided to go public with their experience, hoping to shed light on the painful realities of such decisions.

Their daughter, Bella, was diagnosed with a severe brain tumor that was discovered during an 18-week ultrasound. By 23 weeks, the tumor had aggressively grown, leaving doctors with little hope. “It was a lymphangioma, and it had tripled in size. They were 99% sure it was fatal,” Jamie explained. According to the Guttmacher Institute, only 1.3 percent of abortions occur after 21 weeks, and with strict regulations in most states, these cases are challenging to navigate.

On February 26, Bella’s heart stopped beating, and she was delivered two days later. “It was incredibly painful. When she was born, we were struck by the extent of the tumor,” Jamie recounted. She reflected on the difficult choices they faced, stating, “If we had waited too long and she died in utero, I would have had to carry her body before undergoing a D&C or EXIT procedure. We chose to end the pregnancy early to spare our family and Bella from further suffering. This allowed us to hold her and say goodbye.”

For the Carters, this deeply personal choice was theirs to make, and they believe it should remain that way. If you’re seeking more information on pregnancy and family planning, check out this excellent resource on family-building options at Resolve. For insights into fertility journeys, Make a Mom offers valuable guidance, as does our own blog on terms and conditions.

In summary, sharing personal experiences like those of the Carters can help demystify the deeply emotional decision of late-term abortion. By educating others, they hope to foster understanding and compassion in a world that often lacks both.