"Silent No More": Regret Over Abortion the Theme of Rallies Across the Nation.

Around the nation upwards of 800 women courageously spoke up to say, "I regret my abortion" as part of a nationwide campaign called "Silent No More." The testimonies of these brave women coincided with the 30th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision which legalized abortion for any reason, during all nine months of pregnancy. The gatherings were held at state capitols, in major cities, and in Washington, D.C.

"We are the voice that hasn't been heard," said Georgette Forney, co- founder of the "Silent No More" campaign. "There is a lot of talk about life and choice, but very little attention is given to women who have abortions." Forney, executive director of the National Organization of Episcopalians for Life, said she was inspired by God after struggling with the pain and agony of her own abortion. "I regret my abortion, and I know others feel the same way," she said.

"We are here today," she continued, "because we want other women who can relate to our pain to hear about the hope and help we have found. We have been able to grieve. We have learned to forgive ourselves and others involved in our abortions. And we have been able to find peace."

In Washington, D.C., women from across the United States met for a reception at the Ostrosky House in order to meet one another and to pray before the program. They walked to the front steps of the United States Supreme Court Building with a sense of comradery and of quiet anticipation, excited that their voices would finally be heard.

Actress Jennifer O'Neill, best known for her role in the movie, The Summer of `42, was the keynote speaker in Washington, D.C. She shared her deep regret following her abortion in a public rally in freezing temperatures and biting winds. With great dignity and great sadness, O'Neill recounted the nine miscarriages which followed her abortion.

As one by one women stepped forward to tell their stories, behind them other women quietly held signs reading, "I regret my abortion." Similar themes unfolded as each woman shared her regret and pain following her abortion.

Talk of nightmares, low self-esteem, suicidal tendencies, inability to bear children, and even breast cancer ensued. Many recounted damaged ...