Paying an abortion worker who has recently left the industry, he contends, puts that person on a pedestal and sends an inappropriate message of celebrity. Sudden celebrity also can create a bizarre disconnect for the former abortion worker, Dr. Ney says-and a barrier to true healing. After I left the abortion industry, I became a hero almost overnight. Eventually, Ms. Appleton was hit square in the face by her role in the killing of human beings. It was part of the healing process her celebrity had allowed her to avoid.
Few data exist about the struggles faced by former abortion workers and activists.
But a study of 19 such individuals by Dr. Ney showed that one-third struggle psychologically and often still feel guilty, two of five have problems with substance abuse, and 100 percent feel they were moderately or completely dehumanized by the abortion industry. Mr. Harrah tried to regain his humanity on the dais. Mr. Harrah's speaking career began at churches and CPCs, then was further fueled by Christian media. Cornerstone Television, Pentecostal Evangel magazine, and The 700 Club all ran stories about Mr. Harrah in 1998 and 1999, as did media divisions of Focus on the Family, Life Dynamics, Coral Ridge Ministries, and Life Issues Institute. The more Mr. Harrah appeared in print and on the air, the more demand grew for his speaking.