A Client's Story: Adolescent Family Life Program

Rosa*: In Her Own Words

I'm 18 years old, and I live in Oakland with my two-year-old daughter. I've recently received my certificate as a Medical Assistant. But when I came to The Perinatal Council, I was a new mother, a student with no future, an adolescent trapped in a world of difficult problems. My daughter was sick a lot, I was alone and confused, and I really didn't know what to expect from life.

It was my Case Manager who helped me discover that everything I wanted to do was possible. She helped me through a series of crises by finding a program that would allow me to go to school and other services that would provide diapers, food, and even clothing for my daughter and me. She and the rest of the staff were always supporting me, answering my questions, and advising me about what steps to take to overcome my problems.

With their help, I learned—and I will never forget—that my dreams were not just dreams, but goals I could reach if I gave them my all and put the best of myself into everything I did. Now I'm able to believe that everything that starts well can end well.

Because of my Case Manager, my dream of becoming a general surgeon is becoming more of a reality every day. I still have a lot to learn, but in a few years, I will have made my dreams come true. And once I've reached my goal, I will never forget the people who supported me. They helped me take a more positive view of life, act responsibly, and understand that everything I do has consequences—sometimes good and sometimes bad.

The most important thing I learned is that mistakes are just that—mistakes—and we can take advantage of mistakes by learning from them. I am thankful for the unconditional help I received at The Perinatal Council and for all those who dedicate their time and effort to people like me.

* Names and other identifying details have been changed to protect client confidentiality.