Desserae West has a three-year-old daughter, Devonah, and a one-month-old son Cesar.

She said, “Both of my children are special to me, but knowing they are healthy is the most important thing to me.”

Becoming a teen mother was difficult for Desserae.  She said, “Being a teen mom has affected me a lot. I was fourteen when I had my daughter; I was no longer able to enjoy life. I was always busy taking care of my daughter and myself and I was worried because I didn’t have the time to get a good education.  I also lost all my friends; they all went on with their lives.”

She also said, “It’s not bad to be a teen mother, but it isn’t easy.  Wait to have children if you can.”

The Florence Crittenton School and the Early Learning Center have helped Desserae to balance being a teen mother and completing school. She said, “The School has helped me by being understanding. When I needed something they were always there to help.”

She continued, “My daughter was in the Early Learning Center for a year, she learned a lot and enjoyed the teachers.”

Desserae has plans to further her education. She said, “I plan to go to college, get a good job and support my kids.”

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