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While we here at Band Back Together work tirelessly to collect hotline numbers, it’s not always possible for us to vet each number. If a hotline number is no longer functional or is in bad taste, please send an email to becky@bandbacktogether.com with the phone number so we can remove it.
A safe space to talk about abortion experiences by offering a talkline providing unbiased support and encouragement of self-care for people who have had an abortion.
ARC offers non-directive information and support to parents before, during and after antenatal screening; when they are told their baby has an anomaly; when they are making difficult decisions about continuing with or ending a pregnancy, and when they are coping with complex and painful issues after making a decision, including bereavement.
Call our national helpline and speak to a member of our trained team. Our helpline is open Monday to Friday, 10.00am-5.30pm.
Call 0845 077 2290 or 0207 713 7486 from a mobile.
To speak to an information support specialist, please contact us at 1.800.394.3366 between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (ET)
For questions regarding our services, website, or website content, contact info@childwelfare.gov
Use Live Chat(opens in new window), an instant messaging service, to contact an information support specialist between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (ET). We recommend turning off your pop-up blocker to maximize this service.
NCADD focuses on increasing public awareness and understanding of the diseases of alcohol and drug dependence through education, prevention, information and referral, intervention, treatment services, advocacy, and recovery support services.
Confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
NCADD focuses on increasing public awareness and understanding of the diseases of alcohol and drug dependence through education, prevention, information and referral, intervention, treatment services, advocacy, and recovery support services.
Confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Offers confidential support and information to people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.
We are available around the clock, 365 days a year at 800.272.3900 (TTY: 866.403.3073).
Click the “Live Chat” green button on this page to connect with a member of our Helpline staff. Live chat is typically available from 7a.m.-7p.m. (CST) Monday through Friday.
Online.Use this form to let us know how we can help you. We will respond to you within 24 hours.
Offers information on diagnosis, treatment, patient care, caregiver needs, long-term care, and research and clinical trials related to Alzheimer’s disease.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
Is a non-profit organization that funds research into cures for Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration and glaucoma, and provides the public with information about risk factors, preventative lifestyles, available treatments and coping strategies.
Hotline: 1 (800) 799 – 7233 Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone and online chat.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline) is available for anyone experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.
The IRS Employee Plans maintains the Abusive Transaction Hotline that people can use to share information (anonymously, if preferred) about abusive tax shelters and emerging issues that may be abusive in retirement plans.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
We lead the fight for the arthritis community through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, advancements in science and community connections.
The Arthritis National Research Foundation provides arthritis research grants to scientists at major universities and research institutes across America.
Contact the Arthritis National Research Foundation office through this form or by dialing (800) 588-2873 or (562) 437-6808
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse
The mission of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases is to support research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases; the training of basic and clinical scientists to carry out this research; and the dissemination of information on research progress in these diseases.
HelpLine is a FREE call-back or email service available to all Canadians. Whether you have asthma and other respiratory allergies or are a caregiver, our team of expert CREs can support you.Asthma Canada
The American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association is dedicated to the eradication of autoimmune diseases and the alleviation of suffering and the socioeconomic impact of autoimmunity through fostering and facilitating collaboration in the areas of education, public awareness, research, and patient services in an effective, ethical and efficient manner.
NORD works with pharmaceutical companies to ensure that vital medications are available to those in need. They currently offer a program to assist with premiums and co-pays for PNH patients.
Patients can contact NORD’s Patient Services Representatives at 1-800-999-6673
Si deseas hablar con alguien en espanol por favor llame al (844) 259-7178 para asistencia.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
The Child Death Helpline is a helpline for anyone affected by the death of a child of any age, from pre-birth to adult, under any circumstances, however recently or long ago.
Email: contact@childdeathhelpline.org
Freephone: 0800 282 986
Additional Freephone number for ALL mobiles: 0808 800 6019
Can guide you through the grieving process and empower you to help other families facing the same tragedy.
For Immediate Grief Support, Call 1-800-221-7437.
Counselors are available 24/7
Guiding Light – Stillbirth – Red Nose Grief and Grieving – Australia
Welcome to Red Nose Grief and Loss (formerly SIDS and Kids). With over 40 years’ experience supporting grieving individuals and families, we understand the sudden or unexpected death of a baby or young child is one of the most difficult experiences any person will face
Saying Goodbye provides comprehensive information, advice, support and much more to anyone who has suffered the loss of a baby, at any stage of pregnancy, at birth or in infancy, whether the loss be recent or historic.
Specializes in providing beautiful small baby caskets and burial products for families suffering the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, or preemie death.
Comfort Zone Camp is a nonprofit 501(c)3 bereavement organization that transforms the lives of children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver.
Our programs are free of charge and include confidence building activities and age-based support groups that break the emotional isolation grief often bring
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death of a Child)
The Lullaby Trust (formerly FSID the Foundation for the Study of Infant Death) (UK)
Lullaby funds research, supports bereaved families and promotes safe baby care advice, including helpline for bereaved parents and their families, friends, neighbours and anyone else who has experienced the sudden death of a baby.
1st Breath works with parents who are experiencing the stillbirth of their baby from the time they learn the baby has died throughout their grief journey
One very important resource is having support and guidance as you prepare for your baby’s birth. Contact Loss Doulas International to make birth planning and companioning available to families in need when their child is to be born still, miscarried, or has a condition that is incompatible with life and likely will not live long after birth.
Sands provide support for bereaved parents and their families when their baby dies, before, during or soon after birth as well as information and support for healthcare professionals.
International Society for the Study and Prevention of Perinatal and Infant Death
The International Society for the Study and Prevention of Perinatal and Infant Death (ISPID) is a not-for-profit organization that is leading the world in discovering evidence-based preventive measures for stillbirth and sudden infant death.
ISPID also works to promote improved quality, standardization of care for bereaved parents, and networking families, professionals, and scientists through resource sharing
Guiding Light – Stillbirth – Red Nose Grief and Grieving – Australia
Welcome to Red Nose Grief and Loss (formerly SIDS and Kids). With over 40 years’ experience supporting grieving individuals and families, we understand the sudden or unexpected death of a baby or young child is one of the most difficult experiences any person will face
The Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation has been established with the aim of improving the care of women with a diagnosis, or possible diagnosis, of ectopic pregnancy. We hope to reduce the morbidity and maternal mortality caused by this common condition.
ARC offers non-directive information and support to parents before, during and after antenatal screening; when they are told their baby has an anomaly; when they are making difficult decisions about continuing with or ending a pregnancy, and when they are coping with complex and painful issues after making a decision, including bereavement.
Call our national helpline and speak to a member of our trained team. Our helpline is open Monday to Friday, 10.00am-5.30pm.
Call 0845 077 2290 or 0207 713 7486 from a mobile.
Miscarriage Hotlines:
This UK-based hotline provides information and support for people affected by miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy.
They also provide a helpline: 01924 200 799.
The helpline is available Monday through Friday 9AM to 4PM UK Time (5 hours ahead of EST).
SUDC Program Hotline for helping navigate the autopsy and scene investigation: 1-800-620-SUDC.
helps to cover the myriad costs associated with transplants, such as donor searches, compatibility testing, bone marrow harvesting, medications, home and child care services, medical equipment, transportation, cord blood banking, housing, and other expenses
Open Homes Medical Stays – a partnership with Airbnb’s Open Homes Medical Stays program provides free temporary accommodations to patients diagnosed with any form of cancer or undergoing a hematopoietic stem cell transplant, as well as housing for their caregivers, family members, and donors.
Scholarship Grants offers survivors support towards an academic future so their hopes and dreams remain intact. Scholarship Grants supports students of all ages as they pursue their educational goals.
Helping clients and families how to bring together a network of relatives, friends, and neighbors in fundraising efforts to help cover the costs of uncovered medical expenses
Case Management Professional case managers at PAF work with the mission to identify and reduce the challenges that individuals like yourself are having when seeking care for their disease.
Co-Pay Relief Program patient assistance is purely donor-funded and money is dispersed to qualified patients while funds are available for each of the Diseases identified.
Largest of several US federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities.
(800) 772-1213
CancerCare
CancerCare® Co-Payment Assistance Foundation (CCAF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping patients afford their co-payments for chemotherapy and targeted treatment drugs.
Good Days is a non-profit advocacy organization that provides resources for life-saving and life-extending treatments to people in need of access to care.
The HealthWell Foundation provides financial assistance to eligible individuals to cover coinsurance, copayments, health care premiums and deductibles for certain medications and therapies. They have a pediatric assistance fund regardless of disease.
The Julia’s Wings Foundation (JWF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission of providing assistance to families of children with the life threatening hematological diseases; aplastic anemia, MDS and PNH.
NORD works with pharmaceutical companies to ensure that vital medications are available to those in need. They currently offer a program to assist with premiums and co-pays for PNH patients.
Patients can contact NORD’s Patient Services Representatives at 1-800-999-6673
Si deseas hablar con alguien en espanol por favor llame al (844) 259-7178 para asistencia.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
Dedicated to the prevention of child abuse. Serving the U.S. and Canada, the hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with professional crisis counselors who—through interpreters—provide assistance in over 170 languages. The hotline offers crisis intervention, information, and referrals to thousands of emergency, social service, and support resources. All calls are confidential.
Hotline: 1 (800) 422 – 4453
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone and text.
A program of Boystown USA and is available to children, parents, and families who are struggling with self-harm, mental health disorders, and abuse.
Hotline: 1 (800) 448 – 3000
Text: Text VOICE to 20121 (hours vary)
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone, email, text, and online chat.
The Childhelp National Child Abuse HotlineChildren In Immediate Risk or Danger 1-800-THE-LOSTChild Abuse National Hotline: 1-800-252-2873 (1-800-25ABUSE)
Parenting Support: 1-800-CHILDREN
First Steps (East Valley Child Crisis Center) for child abuse prevention: 1-480-969-2308.
Helpline for Children – Toll-Free in BC (no area code needed) 310.1234
Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-342-3720
Family Violence Prevention Fund: 1-415-252-8900
Day Care Complaint Line: 1-800-732-5207
CyberTipline for reporting the exploitation of children: 1-800-843-5678
Friends of Battered Women and Their Children: 1-800-603-HELP
Kid Help – Children and adolescents in crisis: 1-800-543-7283
Children of Alcoholics:
National Association for Children of Alcoholics: 1-888-55-4COAS (1-888-554-2627)Al-Anon/Alateen Hotline: 1-800-344-2666
Suicide & Depression Hotline – Covenant House 800-999-9999
Disaster Distress:
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline (USA) is a national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.
Open 24/7, 365-day-a–year
Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746
Provides counseling in 100 other languages via 3rd-party interpretation services
Disabilities Hotlines:
The Americans With Disabilities Act Information and Assistance Hotline: 1-800-514-0301
TTY: 1-800-514-0383
International: 1-202-541-0301
Domestic Or Intimate Partner Violence Abuse Hotlines:
Hotline: 1 (800) 799 – 7233 Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone and online chat.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline) is available for anyone experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.
If you have questions, are aware of suspicious activities, or believe you have experienced commodity futures trading, commodity options trading or foreign currency trading (forex) fraud, please let the CFTC know immediately.
IRS Employee Plans maintains the Abusive Transaction Hotline that people can use to share information (anonymously, if preferred) about abusive tax shelters and emerging issues that may be abusive in retirement plans.
The LGBT National Help Center serves gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people by providing free and confidential peer support and local resources.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
We are a group of volunteers with comprehensive sex education providing accurate, non-judgmental, confidential information about sexuality, gender, and relationships.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
Good Days is a non-profit advocacy organization that provides resources for life-saving and life-extending treatments to people in need of access to care.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
GMHC AIDS Hotline: 1-800-AIDS-NYC (1-800-243-7692) TTY: 1-212-645-7470
General AIDS hotline for those worried that they may be infected, or people trying to access New York City AIDS resource: 1-212-807-6655
CDC Business and Labor Resource Service (HIV at Work): 1-877-242-9760 TTY: 1-800-243-7012
HIV Health InfoLine (by Project Inform) 1-888-HIV-INFO (1-888-448-4636)
Non-judgmental volunteer operators listen to callers, share their own stories and provide calm, clear and encouraging information about HIV disease and its care.
National Association of People With AIDS Hotline: 1-240-247-0880
To find HIV Testing Centers 1-800 CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
Women Alive: 1-800-554-4876 International: 1-323-965-1564
A national hotline staffed by HIV-positive women. Geared for HIV-positive women who would like peer support or treatment information. Spanish speaking operators are available.
An independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.
A national anti-trafficking hotline serving victims and survivors of human trafficking and the anti-trafficking community in the United States. The toll-free hotline is available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year in more than 200 languages.
Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Text: 233733
Kids Hotlines:
Phone Friend: 1-602-253-9099. Phone line for school-age home alone children.
Good Days is a non-profit advocacy organization that provides resources for life-saving and life-extending treatments to people in need of access to care.
Provides emotional support, technical advice, and information to current victims of online abuse. It has served over 5,000 victims of nonconsensual pornography (NCP), recorded sexual assault (RSA) and sextortion.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): 1-800-223-6233.
Disabled Parents: 1-623-872-3822
Covenant House Crisis Line for youth, teen and families: 1-800-999-9999
Pediatric Health Hotlines:
HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation provides financial assistance to eligible individuals to cover coinsurance, copayments, health care premiums and deductibles for certain medications and therapies. They have a pediatric assistance fund regardless of disease.
The Julia’s Wings Foundation (JWF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission of providing assistance to families of children with the life threatening hematological diseases; aplastic anemia, MDS, and PNH.
Call: (860) 355-3653
Email info@juliaswings.org
Pet Loss Hotlines:
US Pet Loss Hotlines:C.A.R.E. Pet Loss Helpline – (877) 394-CARE (2273)
Thursday’s Child’s National Youth Advocacy Hotline at 1-800-USA KIDS
National Hotline for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678
National Runaway Switchboard: 1-800-621-4000
Child Find of America Hotline: 1-800-I-AM-LOST (1-800-426.5678)
CONFIDENTIAL Runaway Hotline: 1-800-231-6946
Parent Abduction Hotline: 1-800-292-9688
Self-Injury Hotlines:
National Self-Injury Hotline: 1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8288)
Service Animal Hotlines:
Access to public places with a service dog and other rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Department of Justice at (800) 514-0301; TTY (800) 514-0383;
Housing with a Service Animal: Department of Housing and Urban Development at (202) 708-1112; TTY (202) 708-1455;
Traveling with a Service Animal: Department of Transportation at (202) 366-4000
Bringing your Service Animal to Work: Job Accommodation Network, a free service of the Office of Disability Employment Policy of the Department of Labor, at (800) 526-7234
We are a group of volunteers with comprehensive sex education providing accurate, non-judgmental, confidential information about sexuality, gender, and relationships.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
We are a group of volunteers with comprehensive sex education providing accurate, non-judgmental, confidential information about sexuality, gender, and relationships.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone and online chat.
Lifeline Chat is a service of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, connecting individuals with counselors for emotional support and other services via web chat
Chat is available 24/7 across the U.S.
National Adolescent Suicide Hotline: 1-800-621-4000Boys Town Suicide and Crisis Line: 1-800-448-3000 or 1-800-448-1833 (TDD)
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Youth Talkline provides telephone, online private one-to-one chat and email peer-support, as well as factual information and local resources for cities and towns across the United States.
For teens and young adults up to age 25
1-800-246-7743
Hotline hours are Monday thru Friday from 1pm to 9pm, pacific time
Peovides telephone peer-support, as well as factual information and local resources for our senior community. No matter where they live, LGBT seniors have a place to call when they need peer-support, information and local resources.
1-888-234-7243
Hotline hours are Monday thru Friday from 1pm to 9pm, pacific time
Saturday from 9am to 2pm, pacific time
Children’s National Medical Center Gender and Sexuality Advocacy and Education: (202) 884-2504
What’s The Band Back Together Project’s Mission Statement?
We’re The Band. We’re a group blog. We write about the stuff no one else talks about. We break down stigmas, support each other in a moderated, safe environment while providing educational resource pages. We kick ass and take names. The Band pulls our skeletons from our closets and makes them dance the tango.
What Is The Band Back Together Project?
The Band Back Together Project is a group blog and nonprofit organization founded in September of 2010.
We’re made up of The Band; a motley crew of survivors and volunteers who share our stories of rape, abuse, mental illness, and other traumas in a safe, moderated and supportive environment.
We provide educational resource materials to accompany many of the stories in the hopes that we can reach those who need it most.
What Do You Do At Band Band Back Together?
The Band breaks down stigmas, puts faces to things previously hidden in dark corners, and we tell stories; our stories. We shine a light in the darkness, educate, and give shelter to those who need it.
A team of volunteer editors and moderators work tirelessly to edit and moderate each post and comment to provide a safe environment for those brave enough to share their survival stories.
What Do You Mean, ‘Safe and Moderated Environment?‘
The Band has a group of volunteers that work to edit, moderate, and control how and what gets published on the site – including comments and posts. This is to ensure that each contributor feels comfortable divulging things that may have otherwise been left unsaid.
What Does Band Back Together Moderate For?
Depends, really.
The site has no hard and fast rules when it comes to moderation. Here’s a long-winded explanation of the Guidelines for Submissions for Band Back Together. As the site owner, I try to accept most submissions we receive.
Are All Of These Stories True?
There are many sides to any given situation. Three different people experiencing the same situation will have three different accounts of the experience. What may be fact to one person may seem like fiction to another – but everyone in The Band is allowed their point of view.
We here at The Band Back Together do not fact check stories for accuracy. We cannot possibly ascertain the “truth” in a given situation nor do we care to. It’s not our job.
The truth is subjective.
End (or beginning, as the case may be) of story.
Help! Someone I Know Found Me Here!
Each post on Band Back Together can be written and submitted anonymously. If you need help changing over your post to anonymous, send an email to bandbacktogether@gmail.com with the name of the post, your username, and what you want us to do – make it anonymous or delete it.
However, we do not remove posts unless asked by the author.
We have a scheduling queue and while we do try earlier posts first, we also make sure that there’s a proper balance achieved on the site.
Why Was My Post Edited?
We edit for length, grammar, flow, and readability. While we’ve found a thousand words to be the best length, your story can be told in more or less words. We don’t remove the emotion or your unique voice.
How Long Will It Take For My Post To Publish on Band Back Together?
That’s hard to answer. Right now, posts are taking 1-4 weeks to publish (this does vary with time of year, so it may be more or less time than this). If your post is very time sensitive (suicide attempt, imminent death of a friend or family member, etc) PLEASE notify us by email once your post is submitted for review.
Email bandbacktogether@gmail.com with that information.
How Do I Know When My Post Has Been Scheduled?
After your brilliantly witty work has been sufficiently edited, it is put into a scheduling queue, where I will set it to publish. Once your post is scheduled, it should show up on your dashboard with the post name and date next to it.
A Word About Submitting To Band Back Together:
MAKE SURE, Pranksters, that when you are done writing your brilliant masterwork, that you hit, “submit for review” rather than leaving it in draft mode. In draft mode, we assume you’re still working on it, and we won’t touch it.
Who Do I Contact If I Have Questions About My Post?
Email is best. Comments are not the place to discuss posts.
Please email bandbacktogether@gmail.com.
Is Content On This Site Copyrighted?
All content and images on The Band Back Together Project’s website are copyrighted 2010-2018 and property of The Band Back Together Project; original work is credited back to the original author/submitter.
Said copyrighted property of The Band Back Together Project or the original content owner cannot be reused, reprinted, or otherwise copied without express permission of the original owner. You also further agree not to steal content and post it on this website as your own original work.
How Can I Keep Up With Band Back Together And All The Posts?
Or, you can use good old-fashioned email using bandbacktogether@gmail.com.
How Can I Support The Band Back Together Project?
Interested in volunteering to work with The Band? We’d love to have you!
Email us at bandbacktogethe@gmail.com
Comment – Commenting is a huge part of supporting our writers. Saying something even, “thinking of you” can mean the world to our writers. Please, PLEASE comment.
Share the site with your friends!
More questions? Send an email to bandbacktogether@gmail.com
The Band Back Together Project is a group weblog and nonprofit organization that provides educational resources as well as a safe, moderated, supportive environment to share stories of survival.
Through the power of real stories written by real people, we can work together to de-stigmatize mental illness, abuse, rape, baby loss and other traumas so that we may learn, grow, and heal.
All are welcome.
The Band’s Debut:
The Band Back Together Project is the brainchild of a former blogger, Becky, and saw her brainchild come to light with her friend, Jana. After both women had experienced great trauma, they realized what the blog world was missing: a space to put our stories of survival together. To find comfort and solace knowing that we were not alone. We are none of us alone.
We needed a group blog that we could share our struggles, our stories of survival and our triumphs.
After a brief stint in rehab, The Band was reformed in 2018, and is ready to take the world by it’s horns and make it our own.
A Place to Get The Band Back Together.
The Band was launched mid-September 2010 to much fanfare and acclaim – no small feat in the blog world – receiving thousands of stories and registered users. The Internet, it seemed, needed a space to Band Back Together.
The beautiful part of the stories submitted to the site is that they cross so many lines: a post about loss can also mention depression, addiction and abuse. A post about love may mention heartache and divorce.
On Band Back Together, there are no lines.
ALL are welcome.
Critical Acclaim:
In February 2011, Band Back Together was awarded one of the Internet’s most prestigious awards: a Bloggie. The Bloggie affirmed what we, The Band, already knew: we were survivors and we were proud.
Plans For Our Next Tour:
While World Domination isn’t out of the question, the future of Band Back Together will be to tirelessly continue providing hope and support to those who need it, praises and atta-boys for those in the thick of it and resources and education for those who need to know where to turn next.
Band Back Together will continue to seek out the resources that our readers rely on to help them find comfort and answers in their time of need. We will continue to break down the stigmas found among other things not openly discussed.
On Band Back Together, we put a face to things not normally discussed. We are the face of depression. We are the face of baby loss. We are the face of mental illness. We are the face of abuse. We are the face of rape. We are the face of SURVIVORS and we are proud to be here. We wear our scars proudly, like battle wounds because everything we’ve survived has made us who we are today: better, stronger, and smarter.
It’s time to pull our skeletons out of the closet and make them dance the tango.
An abortion is a very common medical procedure that uses various methods to end an established pregnancy before birth, generally within the first twelve weeks of gestation. A medical abortion may be performed in a doctor’s office or at home. While it is a fairly taboo topic, it’s also a very common procedure: one in three women will have an abortion before the age of 45.
If you are pregnant, you should be aware of your options, including abortion. Deciding to have an abortion is a major decision with both emotional and psychological consequences.
What Is the Difference Between The Abortion Pill and Surgical Abortion?
1) The abortion pill or chemical abortion is an abortion that involves taking medication (Plan B, RU-486, and mifepristone or methotrexate along with misoprostol) to terminate a pregnancy and works up until 10 weeks gestation. Often known as “Plan B,” this medication is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. This allows a woman to have an abortion at home.
It can take anywhere from a single day to four days after a woman takes the pills for the abortion to be complete. The length of time depends upon which medications are used (mifepristone generally takes less time than methotrexate).
During the chemical abortion, women will experience vaginal bleeding after the first drug is taken. The bleeding may be very light or like a heavy period. After the misoprostal is taken, cramping and bleeding begin – more cramping and bleeding than associated with a normal menstrual period. These cramps and clots should last several hours before the greyish gestational sac is passed. Most women take these drugs and expel the embryo at home, which means that she should be prepared for this. The clinic staff should provide guidance as to how to best prepare and what to expect.
If abdominal cramping or flu-like symptoms last greater than 24 hours, a woman should call her abortion provider. A menstrual cycle following a medical abortion may be longer or different than a normal menstrual cycle, but by the second cycle, the cycle should return to normal.
Common Symptoms Associated With The Abortion Pill:
Dizziness
Cramping
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Mild fever or chills
Serious Complications of the Abortion Pill:
Call your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you experience any of the following:
Clots for two or more hours which are larger than a lemon
Heavy vaginal bleeding: soaking through two or more maxi-pads for two hours in a row
Fever over 100.4 degrees for over four hours
Abdominal pain that cannot be managed with medication, heating pad or rest
Vomiting for more than four hours so severe you cannot keep anything down
Smelly, unpleasant vaginal discharge
Any signs you’re still pregnant
2) Surgical or In-Clinic Abortion is what most people think of as an abortion, in which a woman goes to a clinic and ends a pregnancy with the aid of medical doctors, nurses, and surgical anesthesia. A surgical abortion works by emptying the uterus with special instruments. Planned Parenthood provides additional information regarding surgical abortions here.
Surgical or In-Clinic Abortion is an option for terminating a pregnancy. The cervix is gradually opened with tapered rods, until it is wide enough for a cannula to fit through. A cannula attached to some sort of suction machine is inserted into the cervix and the contents of the uterus are emptied by suction. This type of abortion is highly effective and completed within minutes. It allows for sedation, can be used in early pregnancy and generally requires only one visit to the provider.
There are two types of in-clinic abortion procedures.
Aspiration: This is the most common type of abortion performed, typically before 16 weeks gestation.
D&E (Dilation and Evacuation): This type of abortion is performed normally after 16 weeks gestation.
Common Problems After an In-Clinic Abortion:
Heavy bleeding for a few days with minor bleeding and spotting for several weeks
Infection
Undetected ectopic pregnancy
Injury to the uterus or cervix
Incomplete removal of pregnancy
Blood clots in the uterus
Serious Complications of In-Clinic Abortions:
Call your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you experience any of the following:
Very heavy bleeding: passing of clots larger than a lemon or soaking through two or more pads in an hour
Pain not helped by medication, heating pads or rest
Fever
Vomiting
Unpleasant, smelly vaginal discharge
Signs you are still pregnant
Why Do Women Choose To Have Abortions?
A woman’s reasons for choosing to terminate a pregnancy are highly personal and should never be discounted. A woman can choose to have an abortion for any reason that feels right for her. Some of the reasons a woman may choose to have an abortion can include – but is not limited to – the following:
They were abused, in an abusive relationship, and/or sexually assaulted
They are not physically healthy enough to carry a baby
They’re not ready to be a parent yet
They cannot afford a new baby
They want to focus on their living children
They need to be able to achieve their goals: finishing school, finding a good job
They cannot sustain or cope with a baby with their romantic partner
Anti-Abortion Propaganda:
Many anti-abortion groups claim that having an abortion increases a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer and endangers future childbearing. These groups claim that women who have had abortions without complications are more likely to experience infertility, become unable to carry a pregnancy to term, develop ectopic pregnancies, deliver stillborn babies, or become sterile. This propaganda is designed to make a pregnant woman carry their pregnancy to term and can cause severe guilt, anger, fear, and other emotional reactions in pregnant women who may consider abortions.
These claims have been refuted by a significant amount of medical research.
It is also worth noting that having an abortion does not make you a bad person, weak, stupid, or wrong – you must do what is right for you with each pregnancy. Don’t let anyone else tell you how you should feel.
Preventing After-Abortion Complications:
There are some things women can do to lower their risks for post-abortion complications. The first way to reduce complications is to have the abortion early. Generally speaking, the earlier the abortion occurs, the safer.Asking questions about the procedure, what to expect and what to do to prepare, is really important.
Any woman choosing to have an abortion should:
Find a good clinic or qualified practitioner
Tell the practitioner about any medical problems, usage of current medications or street drugs, medication allergies and all other health information
Follow post-operative instructions
Return for a follow-up exam
Later-Term Abortions: Because earlier abortions are less complicated, they are typically safer than later-term abortions. It is important that any woman seeking an abortion do so as soon as possible. However, there are compelling reasons that a woman would have a later-term abortion.
Undiagnosed Pregnancy – due to various reasons, many women do not realize they are pregnant until the pregnancy is advanced.
Maternal Medical Complications – pregnant women, like anyone else, are susceptible to cancer, heart disease, depression, and other serious health problems. Treatments, vital to the survival of the mother, may be ceased if a woman is pregnant.
Tragic Events – while a pregnancy may have been well-planned or eagerly anticipated, tragedy – such as a debilitating disease, car wreck, job loss, or natural disaster – may lead a woman to believe that it is the wrong time to have a baby.
Severe Fetal Abnormalities – through routine prenatal testing, it may be discovered that a fetus has severe abnormalities – anencephaly, severe metabolic disorder, or other severe abnormalities – that may lead a woman to decide it is better to terminate a pregnancy than to allow a child to suffer and die in infancy.
Lack of Money – many women, due to economic circumstances, cannot afford to pay for a first trimester abortion and must save up to obtain a later term abortion.
Emotional Issues After an Abortion:
While most people feel relief after having an abortion, it’s completely normal to feel other emotions, too. Women choose to have abortions for many reasons, but generally it is because pregnancy is, at that time, wrong for them. Even if abortion were the best option for the woman, it’s normal for emotions, post-abortion, to be all over the place. Many women feel regret, shame, guilt, sadness and anger.
Some women feel comforted by talking to a friend, family member or counselor about their abortion. Feelings of loss resulting from a lack of support by someone close shouldn’t be confused with regret about having an abortion. Most women, while having many conflicting emotions, report that their feelings are manageable.
If you are feeling any of these emotions and find them interfering with your ability to carry on your daily duties, please seek help from a doctor or therapist. You can also contact Exhale, an after-abortion talk-line.
How Much Does An Abortion Cost?
The cost of abortions at health centers ranges from about $350 to $950 (costs vary depending upon how far along you are and what clinic you go to) for a first-trimester abortion. The cost is generally higher for a second-trimester abortion. Hospital abortions tend to cost more.
Most insurance companies offer some benefit for elective abortions. Contact your insurance provider for details. Insurance is covered by Medicaid generally only in instances of life-endangerment, rape, and child sexual abuse.Check with your state. The military only covers elective abortions in the case of life-endangerment.
Contact the National Abortion Federation to see if you qualify for a loan or financial assistance for an elective abortion: 1-800-772-9100
How Do I Find An Abortion Provider?
You can call National Abortion Federation at call 1-877-257-0012
Planned Parenthood also has an abortion clinic locator with over 800 locations around the country.
Abortion Hotlines:
Exhale is an after-abortion talk-line that serves women who have abortions and their partners, friends, and family. They respect all various cultural, social, and religious beliefs.
1-866-4 EXHALE
(1-866-439–4253)
National Abortion Federation: For unbiased information about abortion and other resources, including financial assistance, call toll-free: 1-800-772-9100
National Abortion Federation Abortion Provider Finder: 1-877-257-0012
Additional Abortion Resources:
Planned Parenthood is the leading source for abortion and reproductive health information.
Exhale is an after-abortion support site. It’s confidential and serves those who have had abortions or their friends, families, and partners.
National Abortion Federation: The National Abortion Federation (NAF) is the professional association of abortion providers in North America. They believe that women should be trusted to make private medical decisions in consultation with their health care providers. NAF currently offers quality training and services to abortion providers and unbiased information and referral services to women.
