Going through high school has its challenging moments. Can you imagine going to class while pregnant and single watched by millions of viewers across the world? What started with a personal blog and led to being cast on MTV’s “16 and Pregnant,” is now a book; Ashley Salazar is sharing her story in a new memoir called Bittersweet Blessing which will be released January 24th. As a longtime Formspringer, we reached out to her to learn more about what her book is all about.
“I had always wanted to turn my blog into a published book and people all over started suggesting the idea. By writing this book I can share the hard truth on how it isn’t easy becoming pregnant at such a young age and how difficult dealing with physical and mental feelings can be when you haven’t even learned all about yourself yet,” Ashley said. “Hopefully people everywhere, especially young girls facing unplanned and teen pregnancies can see the reality and seriousness of [getting pregnant at a young age].”
The book takes readers back before MTV came into her life and forward to her life today as a college student. “Most of all, Bittersweet Blessing describes two sides of the spectrum, parenting and adoption, and how I had to face both,” she said.
During filming the show, she discovered Formspring and thought it was an interesting way to communicate and get to know others. Two years later she still uses it to reach out to people who are interested in her story.
“Direct communication with people has helped me get the word about my book, blog, and story out there in a more personal way. I can answer any questions about my story and especially questions about sex and contraception that they might be too afraid to ask! Most of all, it can be anonymous. What I love most about Formspring is being able to communicate with my followers on a more personal level and answer any questions that they might have had or been wondering about.”
Thanks to Ashley for sharing her story with Formspring! If you have questions about “16 & Pregnant”, Bittersweet Blessing or what Ashley is up to now, head to her Formspring page. Bittersweet Blessing is available anywhere books are sold online and major retail book stores. When you live through challenges like Ashley has, do you share your experience with others?
