"Despite record-breaking 93 degree heat for our kickoff, the entire event was such a blessing," said Tina in Flint. "God provided shade with the trees ? and a steady wind kept us cool."

A young woman named Kristen shared her story with those in attendance, telling how she had made an appointment for an abortion at Planned Parenthood seven years ago.

A Planned Parenthood worker told her there would be people "protesting" outside ? but to ignore them. "Just knowing that people would be there made her change her mind and choose life for her daughter," Tina said. Kristen's daughter is now 6 years old.

"Being physically present here makes a big difference," Kristen said.

"I just really want to impress upon you all that being here can ? help people understand this is not just a split decision," she said. "We are a community and that's why we are here!"

David Brandao, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

With 40 Days for Life, David wears many hats. Prior to joining the 40 Days for Life team, he was an award-winning radio and TV journalist. He has also served as a board member for a pregnancy help center and as publications director for a major national pro-life organization.