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Single By Choice

Choosing Single Motherhood

By Virginia Gilbert

Pages: 1 2 3 4

mom and child "Sometimes I feel isolated," Adrienne says. "My family is on the west coast and I only have a handful of friends here in Boston. But in another sense [the pregnancy] is empowering, because I have been forced to rely on my own strengths."

Fortunately, Adrienne also has been able to rely on a friend, Craig, who will be with her in the delivery room. Adrienne praises Craig for being "amazing" regarding her situation. Because he's gay, Adrienne is happy to be able to "share something with him that he may never be able to experience on his own."

When asked how she plans to balance work and parenting, Adrienne says, "I'm hoping to be able to find an affordable day care. I've been researching costs and facilities. I've even contemplated getting a job at one [day care center] so I could be with the baby."

Considering the isolation and financial duress Adrienne faces, it's hard not to wonder if adoption wouldn't be better for both her and her baby. Yet, her honesty about her situation and her determination to be a good mother are admirable. She hopes someday to find a father for her child and admits she wouldn't recommend single motherhood.

"I think it's really hard for me to justify my wanting to keep the baby, knowing that it's not the ideal family situation. I constantly question if I'm being selfish. But I'm willing to take full responsibility. I know that I can be a great mom. I just wish the circumstances were better."

Heather, 26, delivered her son four months ago in Texas. Her pregnancy was accidental; the baby's father was and remains uninvolved. Despite feeling lonely and worried about finances during her pregnancy, Heather found unexpected benefits from being single and pregnant.

Pages: 1 2 3 4

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