I've had my ups and downs but I'm getting through it. I'm a single mum, so I'm trying as hard as I can. I was in a relationship, but we broke-up before I discovered I was pregnant. The father knows I am pregnant.
We don't really communicate much anymore but we are talking more as I am soon to give birth.
At the moment I am homeless so I live in a refuge. I needed to get out of my hometown for a while, to cool off. I stayed with a friend for a while then I met a nice man who let me stay at his house. We got into a relationship. It didn't work out as I'd hoped, so I've been staying at hotels and guest houses for the last month.
When I first found out I was pregnant I was with a friend at Nowra hospital. I tested positive and I was really shocked. I felt that it couldn't be true, because at the time I'd been trying to have a baby for about a year, but because of the situation with my ex-partner it was difficult.
I've had to go to appointments on my own, whereas I want the supporting environment of a partner. Small things like feeling the baby kick or attending ultrasounds on my own have been the most challenging for me.
I'm getting there and I feel that if you are determined to do something you can follow through with it. It is hard, but it's making me stronger in the long run.
I've been in contact with CHAIN — an antenatal service where you can also get food and help if you are homeless.
Before I fell pregnant I was going to TAFE and trying to get a job. I am going through a lot really, but I'm looking forward to seeing how my life will unfold with a child.
During the pregnancy I developed gestational diabetes so I have to prick my finger before and after eating to check my insulin levels. It means that I've changed my eating habits and I've learnt to eat more healthily as the pregnancy progressed.
I'm hoping to give birth in Wollongong Hospital where I was born and also my Nan was born. I'm hoping to have a natural birth. I am a bit frightened at the prospect of giving birth, but a lot of women have done it so I believe I can as well.
I don't know where I will live after I've given birth. I'm on a priority housing list, but it can take up to 10 years to get a house.
