Planned Parenthood – Southwest and Central Florida – Patient Testimonials

The following notes were written by our patients to other patients in our waiting room guest books, and also gathered by our national organization, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, during the “I Stand with Planned Parenthood” campaign. “I Stand with Planned Parenthood” helped to engage more than 1.2 million advocates for our cause, raise significant funds, and collect patient and advocate stories to use for education and public relations purposes. They are expressions of gratitude for Planned Parenthood’s services and advice for fellow patients.

Hillsborough County

“I relied on Planned Parenthood when I had no health insurance through work and not enough money to purchase it on my own. PP provided me with yearly pap smears and pelvic exams for a nominal fee. I hope PP will always be there for women who care about their health and want to ensure they get proper preventative care.”
–Laura H., Tampa

“I am here at Planned Parenthood to get tested for STDs. I am scared to death but so thankful that there are places like Planned Parenthood because without them I would probably never get tested. Thank you for being here for me, Planned Parenthood!”
– Anonymous

“I’m so thankful for Planned Parenthood not only because they have pills and various ways of protection, or testing, or abortion, but also because they have people and counselors that you can talk to whenever you’re confused or worried. They also point out ALL the possible solutions.”
– Paula 

Pinellas County

“Here’s my story: I’m bringing my 13-year-old daughter in to be tested for ALL diseases and to get the Depo shot after finding out she was sexually active. A part of me is screaming and the other part is thinking we all know this day will come – some children earlier than others, but nevertheless it happens. No matter how close you are with your kids there is always room to grow. Take time and notice their attitude changes and mood swings, and talk! That’s how I found out … Thank you, Planned Parenthood, for being here for me – and my daughter.”
– Anonymous

“I came from a strong Catholic background. I attended Catholic school from pre-K to 8th grade and, while the school tried their best to provide an array of education about sexual health, the dogma of the religion won out and abstinence-only sex ed was the only one I received. Even when I got to high school, the teacher's knowledge was limited and I did not receive the proper education regarding safe sex practices. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school that I finally became sexually active, but Planned Parenthood was right there to help me. They gave me an entrance exam and screened me for STDs, talked with me about safe sex, and prescribed me birth control. I will be forever thankful for them being there when no one else was.”
–Samantha B., St. Petersburg

“I want to take this opportunity to let you all know that I am very thankful for the services that you provide for women who want to be healthy and in control of their reproductive lives. I especially want to thank you for the abortion services you provide to women who do not want to be parents right now.  It is a woman’s right to choose and, thankfully for this establishment, it is so.  Please keep on keeping on.”
– Anonymous

Lee County

“… Planned Parenthood saved my life. While I was in the PP office, with just the intention of getting my pills and getting out, they informed me that my blood count was 6 out of 14 units – less than half full. They called the emergency room and reserved me a place so I could walk right in and get the blood I needed. It was awesome enough that Planned Parenthood arranged for my red carpet treatment, but they also arrange for it to be at no cost to me, as per my financial situation. The doctor at the hospital said that if I had not gone to Planned Parenthood, I would have bled out in a matter of days. For all my womanly needs, Planned Parenthood has been there for me. They provide me with way more care than I'm paying for.”
–Brittany W., Fort Myers

“I’ve been going to Planned Parenthood for five years – since I decided to have sex for the first time at 16 with a guy who was as interested as I was in being safe and responsible … No teenager should be reluctant or embarrassed to come to Planned Parenthood for help.”
– Anonymous

Manatee County

“My first experience with Planned Parenthood was when I was 17 years old. I was having sex with my boyfriend and the condom broke. Clearly not ready for a baby, I went to PP to get 'the morning after pill.' Later in life, I used their services for STD education, awareness and testing. I also used to get my birth control pills there when I was between jobs and couldn't afford the medication. I'm not sure whether I am pro-choice or pro-life for myself, but I surely do not want to find out. I use Planned Parenthood to give me the chance to become pregnant when and if I am ready.”
–Helen S., Bradenton

“My boyfriend and I talk a lot about sex and I’m going to be on the Pill when it happens. Thanks to Planned Parenthood for being here for all of us.”
– L.P.

Polk County

“I LOVE Planned Parenthood! I have been a patient of yours for over 20 years. Now my daughter obtains your services. I think you guys are wonderful! Keep up the good work. I trust you as my healthcare provider. Love you guys!”
– Anonymous

“I’ve been a client here for about seven years. I always feel completely comfortable asking any questions I may have. I also believe that the care given by the staff here is of the utmost quality, not to mention the fairness of all your fees for service. Continue the great work!”
– Charisse

“Hi guys and girls! This is my first time at Planned Parenthood – I finally decided to get on birth control. I’m 18 years old and found the perfect man for me. I told him that we can’t have sex until I get on birth control … He wants to have sex now … He said, ‘I’ll put on a condom, you’ll be fine.’ I said, ‘Sorry, hun, but we’re waiting.’ I’m in college and I want a degree in equine science so I’m not ready for a child at all! I hope you enjoyed my story.”
– Anonymous

Sarasota County

“I recently brought my 15-year-old to Planned Parenthood for what we thought would be a routine visit; unfortunately, it turned out to be more extensive than we anticipated. The staff has been so helpful and supportive … They have gone out of their way to make a frightened 15-year-old (and her frightened mother) feel informed and secure. I am so grateful for the people at Planned Parenthood who take the extra time that others do not.”
– Mrs. D.