Sahara's Story

From the outside, Sahara was a focused high school student with big dreams and a heart full of ambition. She worked hard to earn honor roll status, excelling in English and Mathematics, and she carried a clear vision of her future: becoming an OBGYN one day. Driven and determined, she was a young woman who knew where she was headed. But life, as it often does, took an unexpected turn.

Sahara’s childhood was shaped by hardship and trauma. At just ten years old, she made the decision to move in with her father and stepmother, hoping for stability. It was during that first year in her new home that she met a young man who, years later, would become more than a friend.

Despite the emotional complexity of her personal life, Sahara remained committed to her studies. Encouraged by her parents, she also nurtured her entrepreneurial spirit, proudly launching a small candle business. Life seemed to be on an upward path, until the beginning of her junior year, when she found out she was pregnant.

A week later, Sahara walked through the doors of our center with her stepmother by her side. What stood out immediately was her confidence and composure. She sat down, looked directly at me, and said, “I’m keeping the baby no matter what anyone says.” That powerful declaration set the tone for the rest of the conversation.

Sahara shared how extended family members and even an ex-girlfriend of the baby’s father had pressured her to consider abortion. But through all the noise and uncertainty, it was her father and stepmother who showed her true love and support. Her voice softened when she spoke of her father, who was currently serving a two-year prison sentence due to past mistakes. “It’s just me and my stepmom for now,” she said, “but she’s been a true mother to me. When I told her I was pregnant, she said, ‘I know just the place for us to go and get help.’” What Sahara didn’t know at the time was that her stepmother had walked through our doors herself three years earlier, facing a similar decision, and had chosen life.

After sharing her story, Sahara turned to me and asked, “Can you help me?” With a smile and a steady hand, I assured her that she had come to the right place. Sahara’s natural curiosity led her to ask about the resources and support available. I explained the pregnancy and parenting classes, the material resources she could earn, and the community of support that awaited her.

She asked if there were other teen moms like her. I introduced her to the idea of joining Embrace Grace, a Bible-based support group for young single mothers, and shared information about other Christian ministries like Bible Study Fellowship and Young Life. They talked about motherhood in every aspect of the journey. I held her hand and reminded her, “You are not alone. The Lord will strengthen you through the hard times and celebrate with you in the good.”

Sahara felt a deep peace wash over her as she admitted it had been years since she felt close to God, but in that moment, she was ready to come back. I gifted her a Bible, a spiritual bag, and an Embrace Grace Love Box—symbols of hope and a new beginning. Shortly after, Sahara beamed with joy during her ultrasound, seeing her baby growing strong. What began in fear was now a journey of courage and love. Since then, she’s stayed in weekly contact, asking questions, growing in confidence, and reconnecting with her faith. Her story is still unfolding, but today she walks forward with grace, strength, and hope.