Discovering an unplanned pregnancy can invoke lots of emotions, including fear, anger or dread. But getting over the shock and carrying such a pregnancy to term can also lead to pleasant surprises.
Often, a woman with an unintended pregnancy doesn't have a realistic choice because of challenging circumstances, or because of a lack of support from those close to her, according to Chuck Donovan, president of the Charlotte Lozier Institute. The Washington-based research organization focuses on "understanding of the value of human life, motherhood, and fatherhood" in order to foster policies that will reduce and end abortion.
BOSTON – Irlan Silva was 14 years old when he first visited America. As a young Brazilian ballet dancer from the most violent favela, or urban slum, in Rio de Janeiro, Silva traveled to New York to compete in the 2005 Youth America Grand Prix. It was his first international dance competition, and he returned home with first prize.
But one award wasn't enough. In 2008, he returned to the competition and earned Best Contemporary Dancer and first place in the Pas de Deux, which is choreographed for two.
