Pregnant? Worried?
Support Désirée's Need
Désirée called us on Christmas Eve. Fourteen weeks pregnant and without food or shelter, she had found the Quebec Life Coalition’s free hotline number on the Internet and called us.
Since that first call, we have stayed in touch, both by phone and in person. On several occasions we met in coffee shops; twice I invited her and her partner to our office for a meal, and once I met them at a hospital.
There have also been periods of silence when my phone calls and text messages went unanswered, a sign of the struggles.
The lack of stability in Désirée’s life was palpable. Whether on the phone or in person, her voice shows signs of strain and it isn't unusual that she breaks down in tears. I’m sure her unborn child is feeling her mother's anxiety.
Things seemed to stabilize at the end of December. She and her partner found a place to stay in a shelter. Désirée was offered a private room, as were the other women, while he was placed in a men's dormitory. Meals were provided three times a day, although both told me that the portions were meager.
Unfortunately, the conditions at the shelter deteriorated. The residents were harsh with her and made fun of her pregnancy. Eventually, Désirée felt compelled to leave.
Not only does she have to contend with her pregnancy, but the lack of stability in her life, coupled with a low self-esteem, all contribute to a harsh battle Désirée faces. A couple of weeks ago, in a moment of panic, she went to a local hospital to ask for an abortion. Frustrated with the service she was receiving, she called us to vent and soon left the hospital with the child in tact.
She is currently staying in a rooming house where the fees are quite high. She was able to afford the first few days but has asked us for help for the rest of the month. Two benefactors have already stepped forward to defray a portion of her expenses. If you are able to help out, we, Désirée, and her unborn child would all be grateful.
A gift may be made by calling (514) 344-2686, or by an Interac money transfer to the email address [email protected] , or going to our website www.cqv.qc.ca and specifying “Désirée” in the empty box near your address when making the gift.
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