During early May 2021, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law the “heartbeat” bill, prohibiting abortions as early as 6-weeks when the fetal heartbeat is first detectable. I was informed of this news through a Texas friend’s Instagram story. My typical mindless tapping was stopped dead within its tracks. I expanded the post, read every word, then scoured the internet for news articles and more information. “When you factor in the time it takes to confirm a pregnancy, consider your options and make a decision, schedule an appointment and comply with all the restrictions politicians have already put in place for patients and providers, a six-week ban essentially bans abortion outright,”(1) notes Dyana Limon-Mercado, executive director of Planned Parenthood Texas Votes. I was at a lost for words. Texas, a state I lived in for 9 years– although never agreed with politically– had made the decision to virtually reverse the decision of Roe v. Wade. The world had begun to turn backwards, losing sight of the things those before us fought for.

This bill was only one of several opponents in women’s right to an abortion signed into effect during the past year.

I was, I am infuriated by the outrageous actions of these political systems. Roe v. Wade granted by mother, my sister, and myself the right to choose. I struggle to comprehend the rationality of men controlling the presence of this vital choice in women’s health. I consider myself lucky to inhabit a state that shows no interest in banning abortions, however I can only think of the friends, acquaintances, strangers in Texas who may not have the same reassurance.

And so I advocate for change, I support organizations that take radical steps in challenging bills such as these. As a premedical student, I began considering a future as an OBGYN; a specialty I had never given much thought to in the past, although a specialty that would grant me access to the front line of women’s health. I would play a vital role in supporting women’s right to choose, and become an informed opponent to abortion bans.

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