Submitted by Cielo Almendras
Markham Stouffville Hospital
“At first, it was difficult to define what happened to me because I didn’t know how I was allowed to feel. I was supposed to trust that my healthcare providers knew best, but I don’t feel like I benefited from their decisions. I know, now, that what I experienced was rape. My right to body autonomy was violated. My right to consent to what happens to me was violated. Of course I’m grateful that I’m okay and my baby is healthy, but I’m still a person. Outside of a pregnant woman’s hospital room, the things that happened to me would qualify as assault.”
Read MoreHJL's Story - Markham Stouffville Hospital, Markham, Ontario
“They completed the C-section noting had I waited any longer my uterus would have ruptured. They then asked me while I was open if I wanted my tubes tied, frankly I think that’s something that should be discussed prior to being on the surgical table.“
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Read MoreSubmitted by Holly