FirstChoice Clinic Makes its Way West!
As I stood watching the people file into the church, all I could manage was a smile and a silent prayer of gratitude. Could it be that it was less than two months ago that we gathered to watch the simulcast of the FirstChoice Clinic fundraiser in
More than once, I found myself having to close my eyes in order to clear my head. Why? It seemed like a dream coming true! At the end of the day, April 27, 2010, I heard a man say, “Is this a done deal? Sure looks like it to me!” Of course he was referring to the “dream” of the establishment of a FirstChoice Clinic satellite which would serve western
A clinic like FirstChoice is far more than a resource for women and families facing an unplanned pregnancy. After listening to Pauline Economon, the key presenter at the luncheon and Director of FirstChoice Clinic since 2001, I would describe it as a very unique and special presence in the community. Beyond the obvious professionalism, expertise and dedication, Pauline and George Economon and the staff of FCC exude a passion and respect for the sanctity of human life nothing short of extraordinary. Factor in the testimony of the clients who have benefited from their services, it seems almost supernatural. It is a labor of love and compassion which rests soundly on faith in the Lord of life.
Their work has not been without its challenges. Building a culture of life in our world is a battle. For instance, federal funding for the “Make a Sound Choice” abstinence based education program will be terminated later this year. Despite the positive results of this program and others like it, the current administration in
The communities of Bismarck/Mandan and the surrounding areas were well represented at the meeting. Many physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals, business leaders and clergy were present to gain
At this juncture, the Economons are working with others around the state associated with FirstChoice Clinic who share their passion to serve the cause of life. The tasks at hand are to secure a location, build an advisory committee and eventually hire a Director for FCCW. More details will follow as progress is made.
Of the champions for life in recent history, few would rival the man who coined the phrase the “Gospel of Life.” The good news about life as he articulates it is worth sharing.
“Even in the midst of difficulties and uncertainties, every person sincerely open to truth and goodness can, by the light of reason and the hidden action of grace, come to recognize in the natural law written in the heart (cf. Romans 2:14-15) the sacred value of human life from its very beginning until its end, and can affirm the right of every human being to have this primary good respected to the highest degree. Upon the recognition of this right every human community and the political community itself are founded.”[i]
The following sonnet is my attempt to communicate the mission of FirstChoice
Choose Life
You’re scared and can’t conceive of going home
With news of a conception you had dreamed
Would happen in another time; not some
Nightmarish version of a movie scene.
Blinded by the shame exposure brings
And deafened to the sound of reason’s voice
Emotional responses threatening
To lead you down the path of “Only Choice”
But underneath the pounding of your heart
The soft and metered rhythm of new life
Becomes a messenger sent to impart
A hope transforming darkness into light
Awaiting are the possibilities
Available to those who choose to see
Demineth2010
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