The truth about pregnancy loss and abortion | Elisabeth Kraus | TEDxSpokane

NOTE: This talk discusses pregnancy loss by miscarriage and abortion and contains some graphic details. When it comes to pregnancy loss and abortion, our society often speaks out or remains silent, trapping countless individuals in cycles of isolation and shame. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, this talk explores how different communities and individuals navigate conversations about pregnancy endings – whether by choice or circumstance – and challenges us to move beyond judgment to a place of deep understanding and support. By sharing authentic stories and examining our own biases, we can shatter the stigma that keeps so many silent, empowering others to add their voices to this vital conversation and build a more compassionate community where every person's reproductive journey is met with empathy rather than judgment. After growing up in a small-town faith community, Elisabeth went on to earn both her undergraduate and graduated degrees from Northwest University with the hope of continuing on much further in her studies. But as it does for all of us, the journey of motherhood became the most formative of her life as she navigated 2 high risk pregnancies resulting in unexpected 2nd trimester terminations. She has spent the last 16 years teaching at the university level and writing about the ways that faith collides with questions of reproductive justice, gender, and parenting. Most recently, Elisabeth has been teaching at Whitworth University and working as a Parent Coach for parents whose children are various navigating medical complexities. In her spare time, she enjoys life with her girls. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx