On Wednesday ,March 2, 2005 a group of women parishioners from St.Mary's Catholic Church, Korona, Florida attended a Respect Life conference at the Catholic Center in Jacksonville. Our presenter was Dr. Vincent Rue who was the first person to identify Post-Abortion Syndrome and has presented this topic in America, Europe, South America and Asia. We learned from Dr. Rue that women who have had abortions often suffer years of pain, guilt and shame for what they have done. They cannot forgive themselves and feel that God could never forgive them. The child within them is aborted but the baby never leaves the mother's mind. This is probably the most traumatic experience a person can have. These feelings span years into their lives as well as the lives of the father and the families involved. Project Rachel is a Christian Organization that helps these women to heal thru counseling. They must accept and acknowledge their responsibility in the abortion and have the desire for relief and change. When they understand the consequences of their choice, they will be ready to accept forgiveness for themselves even though they know they will never forget. When this finally happens they can focus on preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation with the Lord. Some of the most profound comments from these woman are as follows: "And no, it isn't every day I find your shadow here; most times I'm far to busy for reflection or for tears, but sometimes when the children sleep and I have time alone; I sit down in the dark, and rock, and bring my baby home." When an abortion is traumatic, and cannot be openly acknowledged, publicly mourned or socially supported, the woman/man lives in isolation and dreaded silence. For such an individual, grief is "disenfranchised." "So I commit to live because I believe in love and forgiveness and will never forget you my little one." (written by a post-abortive women who has been healed) IF YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO HAS A FRIEND SUFFERING FROM AN ABORTION EXPERIENCE HERE ARE SOME WAYS YOU CAN HELP. Listen with your heart Promise your love and support Remind your friend of God's unconditional love HOW TO BEGIN SIMPLY CALL THE TOLL FREE NUMBER FOR REFERRAL TO A PRIEST OR COUNSELOR. 1-877-908-1212 10 AM to 4 PM