Former Romper Room Host Talks Abortion

January 22, 1998
By: Tristin Yeager
State Capital Bureau

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Sherri Chessen, former television host of Romper Room, came to the capitol to share her abortion experience. Tristin Yeager reports from the state capitol.

Sherri Chessen and her daughter, Kristin Atwell, spoke to legislators and the Missouri Alliance for Choice. Chessen traveled to Sweden for an abortion after doctors refused to perform the procedure following the national attention focused on her case.

Chessen comments on what she has learned.

Actuality:chsen009.wav
RunTime: :11.589
OutCue: "...rests with the mother."
Contents: "And I know, having gone through this 35-years ago that the decision, bittersweet as it is, rests with the mother."


Anti-abortion Representative Rich Chrismer got emotional while discussing the 25th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Tristin Yeager reports from the state capitol.

Chrismer has been active in the anti-abortion movement for 25 years. He recalls his experience councelling women who considered abortion.

Actuality:chris002.wav
RunTime: :26.670
OutCue: "...hold it dearly."
Contents: "When the girl takes the baby and puts it in your arms and tells you 'This is the baby you talked me out of killing. I want to thank you'...I've had that experience quite a few times and I hold it dearly."

On this 25th anniversary, some are celebrating the Roe v. Wade victory. For others like Chrismer, this anniversary reminds him of how much work is yet undone.


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