Short stories

The following stories are shared anonymously to respect the privacy of the individuals involved. Fake names have been used throughout to protect their identities. Additionally, the pictures included are not of the individuals telling the stories, but are simply used for illustrative purposes. Please note that these stories have been changed slightly to ensure they cannot be recognized.

Chiamaka ,18 years old

Pregnant and alone, abandoned by her partner and rejected by her family, Chiamaka faced an uncertain future. When she went into labor, she was alone in a dim room, unable to afford medical help. After giving birth to a beautiful baby boy, overwhelmed by fear and desperation, Chiamaka made the heartbreaking decision to leave him at the edge of the village, hoping someone would find him.

The baby was discovered and taken to an orphanage, but Chiamaka’s heart ached. She regretted her choice, wishing there had been a place where she could have stayed with her child, received help, and built a stable life for them both.

Nneka, 17 years old

17-year-old Nneka was left alone and pregnant after the father abandoned her and her family turned their backs. With no resources or support, she gave birth in isolation to a fragile baby girl. Overwhelmed and scared, Nneka made the heartbreaking decision to leave her baby in the bush, hoping someone would find her and give her a chance.

Days later, Nneka read in the news that a lifeless baby had been found in the bush. Her heart sank as she realized it was her child. The baby, too weak to survive, had perished alone. Nneka, still struggling, wished there had been a place where she and her child could have received the support they desperately needed.

Sadly, her baby’s life was lost, a silent tragedy that could have been avoided with the right help.

Emeka 22 years old, Ngozi 18 years old

22-year-old Emeka and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Ngozi, found themselves overwhelmed by an unexpected pregnancy. Both struggling with poverty and lack of support, they were unable to care for their baby. With no resources, Emeka and Ngozi felt trapped.

When Ngozi gave birth alone in their cramped room, Emeka’s love for his daughter was overshadowed by the fear of not being able to provide for her. In desperation, Emeka made the painful decision to leave her in the bush, hoping someone would find and care for her.

Days later, Emeka learned that his daughter had not survived. The guilt and regret haunted him, as he wished there had been a way to keep her safe and give her a chance at life.

These heart-wrenching stories highlight the urgent need for a place where families in crisis can receive the care and support they need to stay together
Project Second Home is here to make sure no mother has to face such despair alone, and no child is left without the love and care they deserve.