Glimpse into the ‘Soul of a Woman’s Abortion’

HAYS – "Where is My Rainbow? A Unique Glimpse Into the Soul of a Woman’s Abortion," by Hays resident Donetta Robben, is based on the true story found in her niece’s journals following her abortion.

"This was a difficult book for me to write," Robben, a free-lance writer, said. "I’m quite close to the subject matter."

In order to write the book objectively and to protect the identity of many of the characters involved, Robben changed the names of all characters in the book.

"After her abortion, she did not have a flattering life-style," Robben said. "But this is quite typical of post-abortive women."

Robben, who was the administrator of the Mary Elizabeth Maternity Home, Hays, at the time of her niece’s abortion, did not know about this choice.

"My feelings turned from hurt to anger to frustration," Robben recalls, at learning about her niece’s abortion. "Here I was, someone who had nurtured my niece since her own mother died when she was 8 years old. I ran a maternity home and had many resources at my fingertips. Yet, I could not help her when she needed me the most."

Robben’s niece, named Haley Mason in the book, was a 21-year-old student at the University of Nebraska Omaha when she was swept off her feet by a handsome, charming fraternity man. Six months later, Haley found herself pregnant and alone. Believing there was no other option, she aborted her child. The events that followed took Haley through deep emotional pain – pain so intense she could only release it through the lines of her journal.

"I didn’t title the book," Robben said. "My niece did. In one of her journal entries she wrote to our Lord asking, ‘Where is my rainbow after the storm?’

"My goal in writing this book is to let post-abortive women and men know they are not alone in their pain and grief. Jesus desires to heal the depths of their souls. I pray this book will give them the courage they need for their healing to take place."

Robben quickly acknowledges that this book is not just for post-abortive men and women.

"I’m also hoping others will read it. If they do, they will never view this ‘choice’ in the same way. Abortion is not only destroying babies, it is killing the spirits of men and women all across the world."

The book is available in Hays at Hastings, 3300 Vine St., Messenger, 2412 Vine St., or The Good Book Store, 1012 Main. It is also available in Salina at Mariamante Book and Gift store, 2035 E. Iron Ave. Suite 101. Orders can be filled on-line by going to www.soulcommunications.net, and clicking on "books." Other book stores wishing to carry the book can contact Robben at (785) 623-7531.