7
Mar
A Teen Mother’s Story
by Genevieve Castonguay
0 Comments | Posted by thatgirl in Birds and Bees, Living Life, Making Waves, That Girl
Kayla Stott and her son, Lucas
“Denial.” That was the first response Kayla Stott felt when she found out she was pregnant at 16 years old. While most teens were concerned about studying for exams, preparing to get a driver’s license, and discussing the latest gossip, Stott was buying diapers and commencing her biggest life change to date. Nine months later, on the eve before giving birth in March 2008, she sat gazing down at her enlarged belly and imagined how a baby would transform her life. Now, nearing her son’s second birthday, Stott is a “strong believer that everything happens for a reason” and has drawn incredible strength and positivity from his birth.
Not only has Stott been able to have her son, Lucas, and graduate from high school on-time with her classmates, but she has also faced tremendous adversity and judgment. “I may be a young mom, but I’m a good mom,” she states. “Age does not always determine maturity.” Stott is actively pursuing her return to college this year to continue her education and reach her personal ambitions.
A strong advocate against unprotected sex, Stott encourages teens to consider the responsibility that comes with the action. Yet, for those young mothers out there that feel alone, she offers words of advice.
“It takes a lot of strength to be a mom and you need to feel confident in what you are doing,” Stott explains. “It’s a journey that has many ups and downs, and it is a road that the majority of young girls don’t have to take. Yet there are many of us out there and I know from all the teen mothers I’ve met that we are willing to stand by each other and help out in any way, shape or form.” Stott believes that a strong family support system is important, but there are networks of “mom-and-tot” groups that can be equally supportive and informative.
The best part of being a mother for Stott has been the unconditional love Lucas has taught her. “It is so rewarding to see him learn the things I am teaching him and to watch him grow and change into an amazing little man!” He has provided Stott with a more positive outlook on life than she could have anticipated. She lives by the motto: “If you get a chance ― take it. If it changes your life ― let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.”
As Stott approaches her twentieth birthday, I salute her for raising a beautiful son and continuing to persevere through trial and tribulation. It’s time to abolish the stereotypes of teen mothers and support a healthy upbringing for our next generation, rather than condemning life choices. We all have weaknesses and make mistakes, but what could be deemed a mistake by some can prove to be the miracle that provides confidence to overcome whatever life throws at us.