17, pregnant, and homeless
Sometimes I forget that I was a teenage mom, because I never let it define me.
At 17 when I found out I was pregnant I was single, got kicked out, and felt alone. Thankfully my sister took me in, but that meant moving 500 miles away from everyone, and everything I knew!
When I told my daughter’s biological father I was pregnant he instantly checked out, and to be honest I was ok with that. We didn’t know each other very well, it was a summer fling, I knew I didn’t want to share a kid with him, but I didn’t want my daughter to grow up fatherless like I did.
After moving the 500 miles I got a job immediately, and that’s where I met my now husband. We became friends almost immediately, and we hung out every moment we could. He was there through my whole pregnancy, and checked on me after giving birth. After having my daughter I was tempted to move back to my home state, where I would have more support. When I told my now husband he refused to let that happen!
We asked me out a few days later, and after a few weeks asked to be my daughters dad. We were only 18, for an 18 year old to take on the responsibility he was asking for was mind blowing, and of course I was hesitant.
I’m not saying we were perfect, gosh we were toxic, but we did it! Over the years we learned to communicate, and to be better people for eachother. We both worked. I worked mornings anywhere from 6-10 hour shifts, and he worked nights. It was hard, and statistically we should have failed, but we never gave up.
Now we’re 28, we have 3 kids, we’ve owned houses, traveled fulltime, and moved states. I would never promote teenage pregnancy, but just because you’re a teen parent doesn’t mean you have to become a statistic.
DISCLAIMER: I do not support becoming a teen parent on purpose, but if you find your self pregnant as a teenager know you aren’t alone. There are many resources out there that can help! #Lemon8Diary #lemon8diarychallenge #teenparents #teenmom #pregnant #teenagemom
My story, shared earlier, highlights that while being 17 and pregnant presented immense challenges, it’s possible to navigate them and build a fulfilling life. I want to reiterate that my journey is unique, and I'm certainly not advocating for teenage pregnancy. However, if you find yourself in this situation, knowing you're not alone and that resources exist can make all the difference. Many teen parents face similar struggles, and understanding these hurdles is the first step toward overcoming them. One of the biggest emotional challenges for expectant teen parents is the feeling of isolation and judgment. It can feel like your world has shrunk, and friends might not understand. Connecting with support groups specifically for young parents can provide a safe space to share experiences, gain advice, and build a new community. Online forums and local organizations often offer these invaluable connections. Remember, your feelings are valid, and finding others who've walked a similar path can be incredibly empowering. Financially, having a baby at a young age can be daunting. From medical expenses to daily baby essentials, costs add up quickly. Exploring government assistance programs, like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) for nutrition, Medicaid for healthcare, or housing support, can alleviate significant pressure. Many non-profits also offer free baby supplies, parenting classes, and financial literacy workshops tailored for teen parents. Don't hesitate to research and utilize every available resource; they are there to help. Continuing your education is another common concern for those who are 17 and pregnant. It might seem impossible to balance school with childcare, but many schools and community colleges offer flexible programs, online courses, or even on-site daycare facilities. Earning your diploma or pursuing higher education opens doors to better opportunities for you and your child. Prioritize your education, even if it means taking a different path than your peers. Lastly, navigating relationships – with family, friends, and the baby's father – can be complex. Open communication is key, even when it's difficult. Seeking family counseling or mediation services can help bridge gaps and ensure a stable environment for your child. For teen parents, building a strong, reliable support network is paramount. This could include a trusted aunt, a mentor, or the father of your child if he's willing to be involved. Every bit of positive support makes the journey easier. Ultimately, while being 17 and pregnant is a profound life change, it doesn't have to define your future in a negative way. My experience, and the experiences of countless other teen parents, shows that resilience, love, and a willingness to seek help can lead to a truly beautiful and thriving family life.
i love this, im so tired of others telling me ill never be successful as a teen mother, I had my son at 16, hes almost 1, and im about to graduate HS with college credits 💜🥹