Contact: Kristin Hansen, Care Net, 703-554-8742

LANSDOWNE, Virg., Sept. 2 /Christian Newswire/ -- Care Net President Melinda Delahoyde released the following statement Tuesday in response to news of the pregnancy of Gov. Sarah Palin's 17-year old daughter, Bristol:

"Every day, a parent learns the shocking news of a child's unplanned pregnancy. Some, while disappointed, respond with unconditional love and offer their support and care. Others, for numerous reasons, often pressured by what others may think, encourage their child to choose abortion. Children, out of deference to a parent's career and reputation – whether it's as a pastor or as an elected official – may choose abortion. This decision brings grief to the entire family.

"The Palin family, however, has chosen a path not without difficulty, but one without the grief of abortion. They have showed to their daughter what so many children go without – unconditional love. Their example will pave the way for other parents, especially those in high profile careers, who are faced with the same circumstances.

"With the love and support of her family, Bristol has made a brave and difficult decision. She and her future husband will be in our prayers. Instead of choosing a quick escape, they have embraced the circumstances and chosen to have hope in what the unknown future may bring.

"In pregnancy centers across the country, including Wasilla, Alaska, women make these tough but positive decisions every day. With the unconditional love of a pregnancy center peer counselor and the practical support of the community, nine out of ten women who visit a pregnancy center will make the same life-affirming decision Bristol has made.

"We hope and pray for the day when all teens are choosing a more emotionally, physically, and spiritually healthier lifestyle of abstinence outside of marriage. However, we should do all we can as a country and as a culture to see to it that young women have the support to make the decision that Bristol has made."

Care Net is a Christian, non-profit organization that seeks to promote a culture of life through the delivery of valuable, life-affirming, evangelistic ministry to people facing unplanned pregnancies and related sexual issues. Care Net supports a network of 1,100 pregnancy centers in North America and operates, in conjunction with Heartbeat International, the Option Line call center and website that assist women in need 24/7.