Written By: Sarah Beth Crowe, Hope Clinic PR Intern
As a performing arts educator for more than a decade, Miya combines her passions for performing arts and working with children in her profession each day. Miya has been an educator in Nashville for 5 years but decided to step out of the classroom this past year to pursue an opportunity for performing arts. “Taking this opportunity was a huge leap of faith and lacked the security that came with being in the classroom, but this was an opportunity I knew I couldn’t refuse,” said Miya. Miya recently discovered she was pregnant, and because of her current employment situation, she was left feeling nervous and at a loss for what to do next.
Around this time, a friend in the medical field referred Miya to Hope Clinic for Women. With this being her first pregnancy, she wasn’t sure what to expect. However, when she called Hope Clinic to make an appointment, she immediately felt comforted and cared for. Miya noted, “when I called to make my appointment, the receptionist was so kind and helpful in navigating this process. She answered all my questions and gave me all the details I needed.” When she walked through Hope Clinic’s doors, she felt welcomed by the staff and had an overwhelming sense of peace, knowing God led her to the right place.
During her visit, she received verification of her pregnancy and was overjoyed to receive the ultrasound photo of their little blessing. The staff provided her with resources and literature for how to proceed with pregnancy, which helped her determine the place where she wants to give birth. Her partner accompanied her to the appointment and was able to ask questions regarding the pregnancy, as well as options moving forward. Miya explained that she was grateful that he was able to be involved in the process with her. “He has been very supportive and expressed his appreciation for how we were treated during this time and the resources we were given to help us make the best decisions for our growing family,” she said.
She would like to thank Hope Clinic’s receptionist for making her feel welcomed before and during her visit, as well as Eric, her counselor, for helping her feel comfortable, safe and cared for spiritually. Faith has always been a big part of Miya’s life, so the fact that she was able to talk openly about that reassured her that this was where she was meant to be. Miya has such a heart for service and wanted to share her experience at Hope Clinic in the hopes that it might offer some encouragement to other women.
Some advice she gave for women considering Hope Clinic’s services is to do your research and know that you are not a charity case, nor will you be treated that way at Hope Clinic. She said everyone should expect to be warmly welcomed even before their first appointment, and she encouraged women to not be afraid to voice your concerns and what you need. “Hope Clinic will be there to provide care and support for you regardless of your circumstances. The employees are knowledgeable and will help you walk through your next steps in an atmosphere of love and care,” she assured.
Miya is eager to continue being involved at Hope Clinic by taking classes through our Bridge Program and possibly volunteering in the future. We are thankful for the opportunity to serve clients like Miya and hear stories of restored hope for women in our city, even in the midst of the unprecedented challenges this season holds. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please contact us at (615) 321-0005, or visit our website for more information on our mission and services.