To the editor:

Everyone has an opinion, and that is our right as thinking beings with free will. I would defend your right to your opinion. However, it is also reasonable to agree to disagree and allow others to live their lives. 

Abortion is not one size fits all. Contrary to what people may say, no one in healthcare is going to insist someone have an abortion that is not medically necessary, much less provide one. Even if it is necessary to save the life of the mother; healthcare professionals will do everything they can to care for the patient. No one in healthcare takes loss of life easily. We will all have to answer some day for what we have done in life.

For every person who firmly believes life begins at conception and not when an infant draws its first breath. I would ask you how often do you buy prenatal vitamins for those who cannot afford them? Pay bus fare for prenatal visits? Support women who lose their job for missing too much work because of morning sickness, or spending time waiting on public transportation and clinic visits? (I suggest visiting Myrtle Hillard or any public health clinic.) Provide childcare for the children already in the family? Pay for prenatal care for those who have no insurance? Pay for medical debt incurred during delivery? Adopt babies who were given up? Especially, the infants born with defects or whose mother is a heroin addict or using methadone. How often do you help the mother who is battling mental illness, provide care for her infant?

I understand people who have resources have options. That is not to say people who do not have many resources are without options, but generational poverty is real. Much like calling the plays Sunday afternoon from your armchair watching football, it’s easy to have opinions.

Pamela L. Grant

Crestwood