Alone, confused and naïve was the state I was in when I arrived in Toronto, pregnant, in 1998. A complete culture shock followed close behind. Coming from a small farming community in Alberta, I didn't know that a resource such as June's Centre existed, until a family friend referred me to June's Centre.

I arrived for my interview expecting another dead-end and instead a whole other world was opened. Where my words were heard, my choices respected and ideas embellished on. Eileen helped to find me housing and counselled me through many decisions. Doors began to open and many different options were presented to me. I was finally able to make my own life exactly that: my life. I enrolled in day school and began working at night.

Then another life changing event happened. My son, Sutherland, was born on February 5, 1999. I knew that it would happen, but it wasn't reality till then. I attended June's Centre Breastfeeding Group, Parenting Classes and drop-in services and I am involved with the Community Education Project. All of these programs have equipped me with self-esteem, confidence, knowledge and motivation to become the best mom in the world and person I can be. The warm comfortable environment at June's Centre also offers so much. Being around other teen mothers, I've realized that I am not alone with my fears, concerns and goals. I am currently attending Burnhamthorpe Collegiate where I am upgrading to enable me to enroll in college next year.

Elaine Clyne
1999