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Sunnyside Up Youth Pregnancy Services

Sunnyside Up

Youth Pregnancy Services

Katrine’s Birth Story

My boyfriend and I have been together since we were 15 years old. When I was 17, I got pregnant with our son, Tatum. I didn’t even know I was pregnant until I was 7 months along and I panicked because I knew I only had one option and that was to have a baby. My boyfriend told me I was pregnant months before, but I was in denial the whole time. My friend told me about Ms. Cecee and how she helped her sister have a baby.

I was so nervous and scared to tell anyone, but I felt like I could trust Ms. Cecee to help me. I called her and she helped me get myself together and prepare to have Tatum. We sat down and talked to my parents and planned what to do next and how to prepare. I was afraid my friends and family would judge me or stop talking to me and I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to go back to school. The only thing I knew I wanted was as little pain as possible during labor and to learn to breastfeed. My mom and sisters breastfed all of their kids and I wanted to breastfeed too. Ms. Cecee taught me all about childbirth, what would happen during my labor and what to expect after.

Tatum was born on Halloween, and it was a scary night for sure! I was in labor for 16 hours, but the doctor gave me medicine to help with the pain and I did all the things Ms. Cecee taught me. We did breathing exercises, I walked around a lot, and drank lots of water. I even watched a few comedy shows to help take my mind off of the long labor. Overall, labor wasn’t that bad and it definitely was worth it because my baby was born healthy and has had no health issues.

I had no idea how much time and effort breastfeeding would take but Ms. Cecee helped me the first 4 months encouraging me and celebrating with me every time I reached a goal! It was a really good experience. Tatum just turned 2 and is finishing his breastfeeding journey as we get ready to have our second baby. My life is completely different now. I just graduated high school with good grades and plan to go to college next year in the Fall.

I didn’t think I would be able to do all of this by myself, but we are doing the best we can. Some days are harder than others, and sometimes I get sad when I can’t do all the fun things with my friends, but my son makes me happy, and he gives me a reason to work hard and be good to him and myself. I wish I would have been older before having children, but I am also very happy that we are good, and life is pretty good! I tell all my friends to make sure they ask the right people for help because if it wasn’t for Ms. CeCee, I don’t know if I could have been as prepared as I was.

Your Story Matters!

Your story really matters – a lot! It might seem like “just my life” but others can benefit from hearing your unique insights and journey. 

If you are ready to share your story, or you need help with your journey, get in touch with us.