John,

Pro-lifers are often surprised to learn that most women who have abortions have already given birth to at least one living child.

Having experienced the miracle of bringing life into the world, why do they abort their children's siblings?

In many cases, they don't feel equipped to raise another child...which means YOUR presence can go a long way toward encouraging and empowering moms to choose life.

"I want an abortion," said a woman accompanied by her three-year-old daughter in Columbia, Missouri.

She did not feel she was ready to care for another child, so Mary and Kathy encouraged her to go across the street to the local pregnancy help center--an offer she accepted!

"If Mary had not stopped this mom in the parking lot and told her with love the other options available...I have no doubt this mom would have [had an abortion]," said Kathy, the longtime campaign leader. 

And this baby wasn't the only one spared from abortion in Columbia.

Another woman dismissed sidewalk counselors' efforts to help her...until Planned Parenthood wouldn't see her.

"They couldn't give me an appointment," she said, leaving the abortion facility. "I guess I'll see what you have to offer."

After heading to the pregnancy help center, she returned to the sidewalk to thank vigil participants for their kindness and to apologize for being rude.

"This makes three babies (that we know of) saved from the influence of Planned Parenthood," Kathy announced.

Lafayette, Indiana

A woman in the Hoosier State approached the 40 Days for Life vigil to share that she was pregnant and considering abortion.

"I shared my testimony with her and let her know I was there...out of love and memory for my unborn son," Rose responded.

The intimate discussion proved fruitful, as the woman decided to keep her baby.

"She thanked me for my testimony and for touching her life," Rose added. 

Fusagasugá, Colombia

A young woman approaching the end of her second trimester of pregnancy was about to have a late-term abortion.

Thankfully, her teacher knew about the situation and reached out to the 40 Days for Life team for assistance.

"That same day, we were able to speak with her by phone, explain the risks of abortion, and share about the miracle of life growing within her," said Lina from the campaign team. "After a heartfelt and compassionate conversation, her heart was touched, and she decided to say 'yes' to life."

And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. … See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.”

--Matthew 18:5, 10

Lord, keep every child free from harm. Especially in moments of despair, help them to sense the presence of your angels watching over them. Provide a loving home for every child in need, and strengthen and sustain adoptive and foster parents to imitate your fatherly care. Amen.

For life,

Shawn Carney

President & CEO, 40 Days for Life