Dear Editor,

Opponents of Proposition 115, have misrepresented the measure stating it will “ban abortion care” and “makes no exception for rape or incest.” Both statements are false.

Colorado is one of only seven states that does not limit the timing of abortion. We are in the minority of states that allow the procedure to take place all the way up to the baby’s due date. Proposition 115 would only prohibit abortions after 22 weeks, unless the mother’s life is in danger which would have no time restriction. Victims of incest or rape would still have 5 1/2 months to have an abortion, if desired. Additionally, by 22 weeks, most birth defects are identifiable.

  According to verywellfamily.com, babies born as early as 23 weeks have a 17% chance of survival; by 34 weeks, they have the same chance of survival as a full-term infant (37-42 weeks). As a volunteer supporting premature babies, I am astounded by the success of such infants who not only survive but thrive as they grow. Interestingly, many famous people had premature births, such as: Albert Einstein, Anna Pavlova, Mark Twain, Pablo Picasso, Sidney Poitier, Winston Churchill, Stevie Wonder, Michael J. Fox.

Putting political party affiliations aside, along with support or non-support of abortion in general, voting “yes” on Proposition 115 does not appear to be so much a matter of politics as one of decency, responsibility, and humanity.

Carla O’Leary
Peak to Peak