This is a response to Rita Feeney’s “Issue of coercive abortions exposed” published Sept. 24. I found the article pathetic. Once again, the Maine Right to Life Committee shows its true colors and wastes no time taking advantage of a family tragedy for the sole purpose of promoting a political agenda.

What is the “coercion” that Feeney thinks she has exposed? The reasons women decide to end a pregnancy are complex, difficult and very personal. Most important, women facing a pregnancy decision find themselves having to balance the needs of all, and make a decision that makes their life, or their family’s life, “better” regardless of their ultimate decision. To then characterize these considerations as “coercion” is offensive.

My opinion is that the thought of women having the right and the capability to make these decisions on their own terrifies Feeney. Therefore, it must be coercion.

There are more half-truths and falsehoods published in her piece than I can possibly address with a limited word count. My hope is that others saw her piece for what it was: irresponsible and desperate.

Sadly, Feeney exploited a tragic experience, and then used that experience to manipulate the truth, silence women and demonize abortion care providers – a common tactic employed by those of the anti-choice movement.

Sue McPhee, Lisbon