Motherhood doesn’t always come at the “right” time or in the way we expect it to. But even in the unexpected, there is growth, faith, and purpose. Tera’s story, part of the Motherhood: Then & Now series, is one of resilience in the face of overwhelming circumstances—and the strength that can be found in the midst of it.
“This was definitely a crisis pregnancy for me. I was overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.” The reality of having two babies under one year old felt heavy, and the risks that can come with back-to-back pregnancies at her age only added to the pressure. Even though her pregnancy was physically smooth, mentally and emotionally she carried a weight she hadn’t experienced before. “My mind was filled with questions and concerns… I felt a level of pressure and fear that I had never experienced before.”
It was a season that stretched her in every way, but also one that transformed her.
In the midst of this deeply personal journey, Tera was also serving at Claris Health, helping launch the organization’s first satellite clinic in South Los Angeles. Each day, she sat with women facing unintended pregnancies. Many of them felt overwhelmed, afraid, and unsure of what to do next. But during this time, her perspective shifted in a profound way.
She didn’t just empathize, she understood.
“That season humbled me,” she reflects. “It allowed me to connect with patients in a more meaningful way and to truly offer hope—not just as a staff member, but as someone who understood the weight of those decisions firsthand.”
Through her own experience, Tera saw even more clearly what makes care truly impactful. “Claris has always been rooted in providing compassionate, life-affirming care… meeting each woman exactly where she is.” And more than anything, she saw the power of presence: walking alongside someone without judgment and reminding them they are not alone.
Looking back, she also recognizes how much has changed for mothers today—and what a gift that can be.
“The internet is so much more user-friendly now, and there are countless online mom groups that speak to just about every situation a parent could face,” she shares. “I remember spending so much time reading books and chasing down information… Now, so much of that support is right at your fingertips.”
Through every challenge, Tera leaned into her faith in a deeper way than ever before—learning to trust God in the unknown and surrender what she could not control. That foundation continues to shape how she approaches motherhood today.
Her advice to moms reflects the wisdom she’s gained through both hardship and growth:
She also encourages mothers to build their lives on a foundation of faith—covering themselves and their children in prayer and trusting that God is present in every season.
Tera’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the most overwhelming and unexpected moments, there is strength to be found. With faith, support, and compassion, what once feels impossible can become a story of resilience and purpose.
Because motherhood isn’t about perfect timing—it’s about showing up, trusting the process, and discovering that even the hardest seasons can lead to something deeply meaningful.
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