Letters: Thank you to woman conceived in rape for telling her story

This letter is in response to Amber Dubois’ letter.

First, I applaud Dubois for her decision to step forward. She and her mother are strong and courageous.

Finding out your conception story is difficult and coming to terms with it can take a long time. It sounds like her mother was very strong and never allowed her to feel shame.

My mother was 16 when she was raped and my story began. I was in my 20s when I found out the truth and had to deal with so many emotions. I realized I was here for a reason. And, like Amber, when I hear “I’m pro-life except in the case of rape,” I hear “You shouldn’t be here, you are less than human.”

My mother never felt I was a reminder of that horrible day. Instead, she saw me as gift from God to help her get past that experience. She shielded me from the truth until I was old enough to discover it on my own and start asking questions. But I never felt unloved or unwanted.

Now you have the names of two of us conceived in rape. There are many of us out there, many who are ashamed to admit it, many who don’t know. Many of us have had to deal with hate, self-loathing, anger and other emotions to finally accept ourselves.

I often ask my pro-choice friends if I have been a positive influence on their lives. Overwhelmingly, the answer is “yes.” When I tell them my mother’s story, they are usually speechless.

Thank you to the newspaper for posting Dubois’ letter; that took courage on your part. I appreciate your opening a discussion and giving us a voice.