In 1979, I had an abortion. I was about 24, married since I was 16 with 2 children by the age of 19. I had a one-night stand in my first year as a mature student. I think I contacted an abortion clinic counsellor and ended up in London on the last plane from Belfast – which was really pricey then! I begged, borrowed and stole the money. I had to tell my husband. So I ended up being put up by a stranger overnight in London as the plane was so late. Made my way to clinic office and ultimately to the private hospital. I still owe the clinic half the fee – they never chased me for it. The abortion was physically quite painless; the staff were lovely. No regrets. It was the right decision for me and the child.