Yesterday I shared the story of a pregnant teenager who chose to parent her son. Today, I will share Jenifer’s story, a pregnant teenager who chose adoption.

Jen was 17 when she became pregnant. Her boyfriend broke up with her during the pregnancy because he was so scared. Jenifer ended up placing her daughter in a semi-open adoption.

Did you consider all your options or did you immediately think adoption when you found out you were pregnant?

A lot of family members were pushing for abortion, but it was just something I couldn’t do. My dad even started to find articles with headings like “Woman dies giving birth” to try and scare me out of having the child. I knew in my heart I was never going to do what they wanted me to do.I did consider parenting at first. But after my boyfriend broke up with me, I decided adoption would be the best thing for my daughter. I was only seventeen and could not provide her with a stable home.

Do you think age was a big factor in your decision to place your child?

My age was a very big factor. I have always known that I wanted to be a mom. But I knew at 17 that I couldn't give her what she needed. I had all the love in the world. Love doesn't put diapers on my baby or feed her.


Were you in school during your pregnancy?

I went to regular High School classes during the first semester of my Senior Year. For the second semester, I went to a 'special' education school for pregnant teens or teen mothers.

Describe how you choose the family for your daughter and briefly describe your adoption experience.

I was given a handful of prospective families’ bios to read through. I chose three couples to meet with. I chose a couple and I went to visit their house and got to know them better. A week before my due date, I got a call that they had to back out of the adoption. They had a surrogate that was pregnant with triplets. So it was back to the drawing board. I went through more bios and picked another couple. It was a couple whose bio I had not read before. . A week later, I gave birth to my daughter and they took her home from the hospital. I don't remember a lot of the details surrounding the adoption.


Anything else you want to add that I might have left out?

I love my daughter very much and as any parent wants, I wanted her to have the best possible life. I gave her that. As much as I miss her and wish she could be in my home, I know she has a great life. A life that at the age of 17, I could not provide for her. The photos I receive mean more than I could ever express to her adoptive family. They let me know she is ok. They reiterate the decision I made and let me know that it was the right choice. I have no regrets about my decision for her. Also, when the time is right they will know where to find me if she ever wants to meet. That door with never close.

Follow up:
Jenifer and Steve went their separate ways after Amanda was born. Jenifer went to her senior prom eight months pregnant and graduated a week after giving birth. Jenifer and Steve’s paths crossed again three years ago, after not talking for eight years. They re-formed a relationship and got married in October 2005. Their birthdaughter, Amanda, turned ten years old this summer. Neither has other children but are hopeful they will someday.

Thanks Jenifer for taking the time to answer these questions and share your story with us!