Abortion: finding healing and hope. Nonjudgmental program offers helps to women coping with unresolved feelings about abortions.

From the March 13 edition of the Des Moines Register.

For three decades, the issue of abortion has polarized this nation. While anti-abortion and pro-choice factions try to win the war of words and legislation, approximately 30 million women terminated an unplanned pregnancy.

Abortion is such an emotionally and politically charged issue that those who experience it often are unable to grieve their loss for fear of exposure or more emotional pain, according to mental health specialists.

Friends and family often fail to understand the enormity of their pain and suffering, according to Dr. Theresa Burke, author of "Forbidden Grief: The Unspoken Pain of Abortion. "Burke created Rachel's Vineyard, a nonjudgmental, nondenominational program that gives women and men a supportive, confidential environment for healing.

Last year, 250 Rachel's Vineyard weekend retreats were offered in 45 states and 11 countries. Iowa's first will be held April 16-18 in Council Bluffs.

Unresolved issues connected to abortion become a heavy burden for women who say they face a daily internal battle between condemning themselves and defending their choice.

and much more.