By Cheryl Mattox Berry
Who among us hasn’t panicked when something unexpected happens? But if you’ve had 40 weeks to think about an upcoming event, that is plenty of time to figure things out.
That didn’t happen in the case of Cassidy Goodson, 14, of Lakeland, Fla., who faces first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges. Police say she choked her newborn son after prying him out of her body with a pair of scissors over the toilet. Cassidy told police she killed him because she “didn’t know what to do with it.”
This horrific crime shouldn’t have happened. Cassidy had choices. She was in denial and didn’t ask for help or explore her options.
Apparently, two aunts suspected Cassidy was pregnant, but her mother didn’t believe them. She gave the teen two home pregnancy tests, but didn’t watch her take them. Cassidy showed her mother fake negative test results. The mother shares some of the blame because she should have taken her daughter to the doctor for no other reason than to find out why Cassidy was gaining so much weight in her abdomen.
Cassidy lied and schemed, and dug herself deeper into a hole. If you’re pregnant, accept the reality of the situation and seek counseling immediately. Confide in an adult – teacher, school nurse, counselor, relative or family friend – who can help you break the news to your parents or guardian so that you can discuss options.
Many girls fear telling their parents and try to hide their growing belly with baggy clothes. The truth is revealed soon enough. My advice: Face the yelling, cussing, crying and maybe a slap or two. After things have calmed down, admit that you made a mistake and ask your parents for their love and support at this difficult time. They may be disappointed by what you’ve done, but I doubt they will turn their back on you. If that happens, turn to grandma, an aunt or godmother.
If you’re not ready to talk to your parents but need advice, call a 24-hour help line for teens in crisis that operates in most counties. Operators make referrals to local agencies that can provide counseling. Also, the health department and Planned Parenthood are places pregnant teens can go for help.
What Cassidy is experiencing now – psychologically, emotionally, socially and legally – is far worse than the anticipated wrath of her parents upon finding out she was pregnant. She didn’t have to be alone and afraid. Nor do you. Don’t make the same deadly mistake that she did.