Celina* was 19, working hard to finish high school with a two-year old. Both her parents had passed away when she was young. When she suspected she was pregnant again, Celina was scared and didn't know what to do. Her support network was non-existent, and she had no idea how to access pre-natal care.

A referral from the Dallas ISD Teen Pregnancy and Parenting Program led Celina to Hope Cottage. She met with Jennifer Spaeth, a skilled birth parent advocate. Jennifer listened to Celina. She explained the options available so Celina could make an informed decision about what was best for her and her baby.

Celina was nervous that she had gone so long without prenatal care. It is incredibly difficult to find a provider willing to begin prenatal care once a pregnancy is past 20 weeks. Hospitals and clinics who do are often unable to schedule an initial appointment for months. This leaves expectant parents without health care options for the duration of their pregnancy. Jennifer used Hope Cottage’s vibrant partner network to secure a prenatal appointment and ultrasound for Celina just two days later. Celina heard her baby's heartbeat and was immediately reassured about her health and the baby's health. After considering her options, Celina decided to place her baby for adoption.

Jennifer was there for her every step of the way. She helped Celina find an adoptive family and advocated for her during her pregnancy and delivery. Celina gave birth to a healthy baby, who was adopted by a loving family last Friday. Celina is receiving on-going parenting assistance from Hope Cottage for her 2-year-old, and she knows that her healthy baby is in a good home.

Hope Cottage changes lives. Prenatal care is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby. If you are pregnant and might be considering adoption, please contact Hope Cottage. We can provide you with the support that you need to make an informed decision about what is best for you and your baby.

(*Name changed to protect client identity.)