Get to Know us at LivingWell Medical Clinic

At LivingWell Medical Clinic, we provide confidential, compassionate care and help to women and men who find themselves in an unplanned pregnancy. At our clinic you will receive non-judgmental support in your pregnancy decision, and all of our services available free of change.

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you might feel like you have no one to talk to who understands or can help you. That is why we exist at LivingWell, to be a safe place for you, no matter what your story may be.In this blog, we want to introduce you to Cathy, the CEO, to help you learn more about the kind of person you will meet at LivingWell if you schedule an appointment with us.

Cathy has answered some questions to help you get a better understanding about what LivingWell Medical Clinic does and why they offer their free services. She truly enjoys what she does, and she and her caring staff are people who you can trust to talk with if you or someone you may know are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and need help. 

What is your hope for anyone who comes into your center?

We welcome anyone who comes through our doors with open arms, no matter their story. Our Client Advocates and Healthcare Professionals are ready to listen, answer questions, and provide excellent service. Every person who walks through our doors is so valuable and deserves to be cared for respectfully and with compassion. Our hope is they feel safe, cared for, heard, respected and they leave well-equipped to take control of their future

Why is your center’s mission so important to you?

Women and men deserve to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Understanding each pregnancy option is essential; allowing a woman or couple to weigh the pros and cons so the best decision can be made for her. For those who may have been exposed to an STI or STD, it is vital that we understand how our sexual behavior may be putting us at great risk of having a life-long disease or possibly diminishing our reproductive capabilities.

Why did you choose to run/get involved with a pregnancy center?

In 2004, I was not aware of LivingWell Medical Clinic. I was a Realtor and my Broker approached me one day and asked if I had ever considered doing something other than real estate. Normally, it is not a good day when your boss asks you if you want to do something else, but for me it was an opportunity I had hoped for.

You see, in 1981, when I was 23, I made an abortion decision. That decision was my biggest regret in life for many reasons. I was embarrassed and ashamed of my choice. I left the abortion clinic thinking that if I never told anyone, it would be as if it never happened. I instantly went into denial, which is a strong deceptive emotion.

For the next 17 years, I had developed some bad behaviors, all rooted in a sense of low self-esteem. During that time, I learned that my uterus had been scarred so badly during the abortion that I would never have children. After avoiding every baby shower I was invited to, I became aware this was not normal behavior. I sought help through a friend. After receiving help, it was not long before I had a deep desire to tell other women considering abortion to pause for a moment, take a deep breath, seek help, and consider their options. That opportunity came when I was invited to submit my resume to LivingWell.

What is one thing you would say to anyone who is considering an abortion and/or is struggling from a past abortion?

If you are considering abortion, I encourage you to talk with someone who understands where you are. There is a saying: “You don’t know what you don’t know.” Allow that person to walk with you on your pregnancy journey. Get all the facts and consider the pros and cons before making your decision.

I wish I had someone to talk with about my unwanted pregnancy before I spontaneously ran to the abortion clinic. I believe if someone told me that I could be a good single mom and they would be there with me, I would not have made the choice to abort my baby. If you have made a past abortion decision, you are not alone. One-third of women of reproductive age, have ended one or more pregnancies with abortion.

Many women regret their decision and are suffering in silence; too ashamed to reach out for help. I know it is scary, but don’t let another day go by before you begin your healing journey. I thought I was fine until I gained the courage to talk about my experience with someone who also made a past abortion decision. I discovered so many of my negative behaviors started after my abortion experience. I lived in denial for nearly 18 years before I got the courage to talk about it.

My life changed after I processed how my decision all those years ago had affected so much of my thoughts and behavior in a negative way. I was finally able to forgive myself and others who participated in that decision. There is hope for healing– reach out for help to start your healing!

What is something you would like to share with your community?

If you are considering abortion or have made a past abortion decision, you are not alone– we are here for you. When faced with an unwanted pregnancy, no option seems good in those early moments of discovery. Caring and compassionate healthcare professionals and trained Client Advocates are ready to help you process what seems like your world is being turned upside down. We’ve got you until you can say, “I’ve got this!”

How can those in your community help with your center’s work?

You can get involved with LivingWell by volunteering at our clinic, thrift store, or events; make a financial donation; donate new and gently used clothing for mom and baby; donate items such as a Pack ‘N Play, stroller, car seat, diapers, etc.; make baby blankets, hats, and booties, and quilts; or become a prayer partner.

How has COVID-19 affected your day-to-day operations?

We have remained open throughout the pandemic providing essential care for our community at a time when it is needed more than ever. Physical distancing, requiring face coverings, and strict sanitation protocols continue to be in place for the safety of our patients and staff.  

Contact Us Today

Our team at LivingWell Medical Clinic is dedicated to helping you.  All of our services are free of charge and confidential. If you would like to schedule an appointment, have any questions, or need support, call us at 530.272.6800. We would love to meet you.