Remo, today a caring father, is thankful that the SAMC supported Priska so well during her crisis.
Priska needed help – Remo, time
Priska, barely 21 years old, feels like she is caught in a downpour as she discovers that she is pregnant. Midst in an important vocational program that she is doing parallel to her job, her dream of a secure future seems endangered. As she tells Remo, the father of her child, about the pregnancy, he withdraws – she can’t reach him, and is left alone with her fears and questions.
In panic, Priska asks herself, “Who can help me now?” Then she notices an article about the baby windows sponsored by the Swiss Aid for Mother and Child (SAMC). Just maybe – she thinks, in her crisis – the SAMC could help me too. Hesitantly, she dials the number of the helpline.
The first ray of hope
The counselor that answers Priska’s call, immediately notices her deep insecurity. The young woman nervously describes her situation: How is she supposed to manage her career, vocational training and a baby all at the same time? She finds it especially painful that Remo doesn’t want anything to do with the child – he seems to have disappeared from the face of the earth. With a calm voice and professional clarity, the counselor gives Priska an initial orientation. She explains that the baby’s father is obligated by law to support them, and offers concrete help with all of the issues related to life with her child. Additionally, she explains the ways that the SAMC can assist them financially and materially.
At the end of their discussion, Priska feels relieved and says that she sees the situation more clearly now, and would like to remain in contact with the counselor.
Step by step towards trust
Over the following weeks, an intensive exchange develops between Priska and her counselor. The young woman remains uncertain, constantly seeking reassurance and clear answers. Questions about job security during pregnancy and after the birth, about custody and worries about Remo, who has disappeared, preoccupy her.
The counselor takes her time, patiently addresses the pregnant woman’s concerns and gives her reassurance. She tells Priska that a lot of fathers initially react with rejection or withdrawal, but often change their attitude.
A brave decision
Through these discussions, the pregnant woman gradually finds her footing. Her confidence increases to the point that – with the support of the SAMC – she can cope with life as a mother.
Even after Priska decides to keep her child, the counselor stands by her side. She gives her valuable tips on determining paternity and maintenance claims. The young woman is deeply grateful and repeatedly emphasizes how much this support helps her. What is particularly nice is that her relationship with her own mother, who now stands by her side, is also improving.
Priska receives baby clothes and financial help from the SAMC to buy baby equipment. Visibly touched, she says to the counselor, in essence: “I don’t regret my decision one bit. I’ve come a long way since I desperately contacted the SAMC – thanks to your help. You have strengthened me so much.”
When her son is born, Priska radiantly shares the joy of this moment. SAMC continues to provide the young mother with support tailored to her needs.
A new chapter – with Remo
Months after giving birth, Priska proudly tells her consultant that she is continuing her vocational training. Her employer gives her a lot of flexibility so that she can often work from home. When she has to go into the office, her mother lovingly looks after the little one. And then the surprise: the counselor was right – Remo has changed. The dismissive father of the child has become a caring dad who accepts his responsibilities.
As Priska and Remo visit the SAMC with their son, Remo opens up. He admits that the pregnancy was too much for him to deal with. He thanks the SAMC that they supported Priska so well. Contact with the counselor continues. More than a year after the birth, Priska movingly tells the counselor that without her help, they wouldn’t have their son today.