Hello ... My name is Jennifer Sommersby Young and I am a freelancer living in Coquitlam, BC (just east of gorgeous Vancouver!).

I am working on a piece about women who had babies in their teens -- but the slant is different than an 'Oh, woe is me, I'm 16 and pregnant." This isn't a self-help article, but rather one meant to inspire young women against the stereotypes and stigmas of modern society. Have you overcome such stigma to find success? Did you finish college? Grad or business school? Medical school? Are you a successful businesswoman? What about your child? Is s/he well adjusted and thriving?

If you have had (and kept; no adoption stories, please) a baby in your teens and you are now in your 20s, 30s, or 40s (or older!), TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SUCCESS. Did Dad stick around, or did you achieve your success all on your own? What sort of help did you have? Lance Armstrong's mom had him when she was 17 and look them today -- AMAZING.

Thanks in advance for your interest and I look forward to hearing from you. Email to stet@shaw.ca. Talk to you soon!

Jenn S-Y