Oct. 16, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: Regardless of where you stand on the abortion issue, there are other factors to consider when voting.
One out of every four pregnancies ends in a miscarriage. A miscarriage is nature aborting a pregnancy that is not viable. A woman experiencing a miscarriage already feels a mixture of emotions — grief, loss, guilt, anxiety, even a sense of failure. Medical intervention is usually necessary for the health of the mother.
If abortion is not legal, then the mother also risks fear of prosecution! Additionally, she risks not finding a doctor who will assist her. A molar pregnancy (placenta develops abnormally/fetus often not viable) can be life-threatening to the mother if medical assistance is not obtained.
I have experienced both of these situations. Women need to be responsible for making decisions for all their health care with the help of their doctor not the government. Vote “yes” on the amendment for women’s health.
I encourage you to vote “yes” on all three amendments. The right to vote, the right to marriage for any two adults, and Women’s right to health care.
Yes — Women’s reproductive rights. Yes — Marriage equality. Yes — Voting rights. CINDY MILLER Rockbridge County
