My eyes filled with uncontrollable tears as the Pastor ministered through the song, "Thank You, Jesus." Looking back, I wondered what life would have been like had God not lead me to the Alexandria Pregnancy Help Center and the staff that provided me with much needed encouragement.

Any "first-time pregnant woman traveler" who is currently granted a visa to the United States is blessed. The horrible events of 9-11 made it much more difficult for any pregnant woman from a developing nation to enter. And so, for me, my selection to travel from Ghana to the United States was a step of faith. Indeed, I was the only "first-time pregnant woman traveler" granted a visa on that particular day of appointment. When I was called one afternoon to come in for my visa, I realized how loved I am by God.

Thought I'd been granted a visa to a country which I had always wanted to visit, I had also been granted a visa to the world of the unknown! Much awaited me. Once in the United States, I visited my brother in Massachusetts but ultimately settled in Virginia. So much happened and thoughts of my future flooded my mind with anxiety. It was then I decided to trust God who "began a good work (in me) and would be faithful to complete it."

The time came to visit a medical clinic. I approached the eligibility aspect thinking all was well, but instead I was denied prenatal care! Though disturbing, I encouraged myself with the knowledge that God would not bring me this far only to leave me; neither had He ceased to be the Great Physician -- the provider of deliverance. "Would I bring you to birth and not deliver?" (Isaiah 37:3) I hungered for Him and began to pray asking Him for a safe delivery; I also asked for a healthy baby boy!

Faced with my problems and no ready solutions, a friend suggested I look through a telephone directory for a pregnancy help center. Locating the Alexandria Pregnancy Help Center, I had no idea how my life would be impacted forever. I called the Center and a receptive, warm voice asked if I needed help. I sure did! My question was, "Where do I push my baby (out) when I am in labor since I am being denied medical care? Do I stay in my apartment and push?" She said, "No, call me when you are in labor and I will accompany you to the hospital. We can also give you the help you'll need with baby clothing and equipment." What an encouragement!

The day came to deliver my child. I recalled a doctor who had earlier advised me to abort because of my terrible circumstances. I was glad I had refused his advice! Instead, I had turned to God who answered my prayers -- my delivery was safe and a healthy baby boy entered the world! I continue to thank God for His very special gifts to me.

--A grateful client