John,

My name is Lianna Rebolledo. When I was just twelve years old, I endured one of the most horrific things a person can go through — I was the victim of rape.

In the aftermath of that incident, I learned that I was pregnant. Instead of offering support to help me heal from the trauma and fear that I was experiencing, the doctor told me to have an abortion.

However, in my heart, I knew that my baby’s life had value and that having an abortion would not take away the impact of what was done to me. I embraced my daughter’s life, and she has been the best thing that ever happened to me.

Protecting my daughter’s life saved my life.

As part of Live Action’s continuing “Face to Face” series, I had the opportunity to share my testimony with a group of people who know all too well what this experience is like. I sat down with two other women who were the survivors of rape and three individuals who were conceived in rape for a vulnerable and powerful conversation.

United by shared tragedy, each of us brought a unique perspective to the table as we spoke with heartbreaking honesty and found new healing together.

You can watch our conversation here: liveaction.org/face-to-face-rape-victims-and-children-of-rape