Kelly McCallister, RN
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in Minden, a small town about 30 miles east of Shreveport, Louisiana. I studied nursing at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana.
Share with us about your family.
My husband and I have been married for 20 years and have 5 children: Michael, Matthew, Katie, Shelby, and Caleb. Our kids are growing up and we now have only 2 at home!
Tell us about what brought you to pregnancy help and the pro-life movement.
My journey to pregnancy help and the pro-life movement began many years ago with my own unplanned pregnancy. I remember feeling scared, overwhelmed, and the strong desire not to become just another statistic. Interestingly enough, months before my own unplanned pregnancy, I learned about abortion through the experience of a friend's family member. She went to the clinic in Shreveport and they "took care of it." She would be off work for a couple of days, but then could go on about her life. It sounded so easy and simple! When I confessed my pregnancy to my mother, thankfully, she knew differently. She explained to me that a life was already growing inside of me and what had been done, well, was done. She became my shield and my refuge during that time. Being a teen mother had so many trials! There was so much to learn and there were so many sacrifices to be made. Looking back now, I would not trade the momentary affliction of those sacrifices for the heavy life-long burden of regret that I would carry had I had an abortion. My son became my inspiration and my motivation! My mother passed away a little over a year after my son was born, making him the only grandchild that she ever met. It was my son that kept me from giving up on life after she passed away. I made some of the best decisions of my life, not despite him, but because of him! Knowing that I had to support him, I went on to nursing school after graduation. When I met my husband, he loved us both, and showing us the love of the Father, adopted my son as his own. In 2010, a friend from church that knew my story asked me if I would be interested in working at a local pregnancy center. Of course, I was humbled and amazed at how the Lord took all of my ashes and created something so beautiful! I would have a chance to be that shield and refuge for others that my mother was for me all those years ago. When my son was born, I was told that God must have a special purpose for him. He did and still does, as He does for each and every life He creates! My baby is now 24 years old, and I can solemnly say that I have never regretted a single day of his life.
What brought you to Heartbeat International?
While working at my pregnancy center, I read an email that was seeking nurses to serve on the Abortion Pill ReversalTM Helpline. I had previously been intrigued by the research done regarding reversal and even remember reading an article about the personal experience of a mother that had successfully reversed her chemical abortion. There was no hesitation on my part, I knew without a doubt that the Lord was calling me to serve on the hotline!
Tell us about your experiences helping women on the Rescue Helpline.
I am brought to tears even as I write this, moved by the courage the ladies that call the hotline have. In some cases, it is minutes after she has begun the chemical abortion. These mothers are willing to admit what they have done and reach out for help. Most of them are still unsure that anything can be done, but they are willing to try! It is a decision filled with questions, uncertainty, and a deep, often-times very secretive, internal struggle. I have found that what they need is compassion, a listening ear, and a voice of hope. Women from all over the world express desperation to save their babies, this feeling is a universal one that transcends geography and even language barriers.
What has surprised you the most about the Rescue Helpline?
I am uncertain why we are surprised by the Lord's work, but I can't help but stand in awe at what He is building through Abortion Pill Reversal. A network of nurses, providers, believers, mothers and even survivors! The vastness of it can only be attributed to the Lord. What a beautiful tapestry of testimonies He is creating.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I believe the most enjoyable thing about my work is simply that it is a calling. I find great joy in serving in the roles the Lord has given me. Kingdom work far outweighs the riches this world can offer! I am humbled and amazed still every day that such a task is entrusted to us as His children.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
Quality time is my love language, so spending time with my family and friends fills my cup! Speaking of cups, mine usually has hot coffee in it. :) I also love to read and enjoy singing!
What else would you like to share?
A wise friend once told me that the Lord doesn’t waste a thing. I have found this to be quite true. He has taken my personal and professional experiences, knit them together, and positioned me in such a way to serve others. He did it for me, so I know He can and will do this for you as well!
I believe that with the recent overturn of Roe v. Wade in our nation, we will see an increase in clients that begin a chemical abortion. I also know that those who regret that decision and change their minds will have a whole network of compassionate helpers waiting to serve them!
