I am a new mom of a beautiful 7-month-old baby. My story, however, began as a nightmare.

In December 2021, I was faced with an unplanned pregnancy. I did not have a life that was conducive to raising a baby. I, like many other women in that situation, panicked and wanted an impulsive abortion. I almost did it. But thanks to Selah, they provided a safe and caring environment for me to make an informed decision.

Senate Bill 23-190 brings bad news that will limit pregnancy resource centers just like Selah in supporting other women through a crisis. They say not to make a rushed decision while in a crisis. But a pregnancy can make it seem like time is closing in on you. This new legislature will prohibit an abortion reversal for someone who does follow through with an impulsive decision and instantly regrets it. This bill only emphasizes more of a need for centers just like Selah.

But Colorado does not see it that way. Colorado politicians claim to be pro-choice, while they criminalize one’s choice to reverse an abortion. That speaks volumes. These politicians are pretty much pushing for abortions, instead of promoting choice. What message do we really want to send to women in such a serious situation? One that only promotes abortion? Or one that promotes flexibility in the decision making process? I for one am grateful for the flexibility.

I was able to take time to thoroughly research my options and it was all thanks to our local pregnancy resource center for counseling me away from a panicked and rushed decision. Today, I am very happy to be a mom and my life is better for it. Thank you, Selah, for being there every step of the way.

Lindsey Eckhoff

Steamboat Springs