Emily Kiser: Providing care at time of need

Regarding the July 24 column “The price of fetal parts”: Opinion writers like Charles Krauthammer are free to voice their views, but having an opinion about abortion does not qualify him to speak about what it means to work for Planned Parenthood.

I worked for Planned Parenthood as a health care assistant for two years. I cared for women who came for birth control, STD treatment and cancer screenings. I also cared for women who turned to Planned Parenthood for abortion.

Some of the women I spoke with felt the decision was difficult, but most walked through our doors determined to reclaim their lives, and they left grateful to us for providing high-quality, nonjudgmental care.

Some days were harder than others. We saw patients with particularly difficult life circumstances and, of course, we dealt with protesters harassing these patients who were simply seeking care.

Every day was made better because I was surrounded by compassionate, committed colleagues whose first priority was always the patient in front of her.

Opinion writers, especially those who oppose safe and legal abortion, may not understand the care Planned Parenthood provides, but our patients do. I stand with them, and I stand with Planned Parenthood.

This story was originally published July 30, 2015 at 4:49 PM with the headline "Emily Kiser: Providing care at time of need."