MSFC Update - May 2005

New Talkline Services: EXHALE and BACKLINE
EXHALE and BACKLINE In response to nationwide demand, EXHALE, an Oakland, California-based organization, is expanding access to its after-abortion talkline. Started in 2002 as a community service in the San Francisco Bay Area, Exhale’s talkline will finally be available nationwide, in multiple languages, including Spanish, this summer. Exhale serves women and girls who have had abortions and their partners, friends and family members who want to talk freely about their experience with abortion. Respect for the social, cultural and religious beliefs of all callers is a cornerstone of their service.

Beginning June 1, 2005 trained peer counselors will be available Monday - Friday, 5 pm - 10 pm PST and Saturday - Sunday 12 pm - 10 pm PST by calling 1-866-4 EXHALE (1-866-439-4253). The mission of Exhale is to create a social climate where each person’s unique experience with abortion is supported, respected and free from stigma. Exhale provides services, training and education to empower individuals, families and communities to achieve post-abortion health and wellbeing. For more information or to receive materials, check out www.4exhale.org.

Another new phone resource, BACKLINE, which provides client-centered pregnancy options discussion and information, has been operating since November 2004. Backline is dedicated to addressing the broad range of experiences and emotions surrounding pregnancy, parenting, adoption and abortion. Backline’s hours of operations are Monday through Thursday, 5 pm - 10 pm PST, and Friday through Saturday, 10 am - 3 pm PST. Backline can be accessed by calling 888-493-0092.

Congratulations Medical School Class of 2005! Stay in touch with MSFC!
Join the MSFC alumni network as a resident and: Join a network of supportive pro-choice residents via MSFC’s Resident Email Listserv! Obtain resources and referrals for training opportunities. Help MSFC evaluate its impact over a long term period.

We want to stay in touch with you through your residency, so please let us know where you are going. Contact Yarrow at yarrow@ms4c.org so that we can update your information.

SAVE THE DATE!
The 2005 MSFC Leadership Training Program will be held July 29-31. If you are a student leader and you are interested in attending, please contact Jessica at msfc@ms4c.org. Registration deadline: June 17

MSFC Founder Honored by NARAL Pro-Choice America
At NARAL Pro-Choice America’s annual Power of Choice Luncheon on March 10, 2005, MSFC Founder Jody Steinauer, MD was honored for her work as a young leader in the pro-choice movement. Also honored were Katie McCall, Bay Area Project Manager of Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health, and Cari Sietstra, Executive Director of Law Students for Choice.