Our Team

Melissa Ohden

As the survivor of a failed saline infusion abortion, Melissa Ohden founded The Abortion Survivors Network (ASN), the only healing and advocacy organization for abortion survivors. In addition, Melissa is a pro-life speaker, leader, and advocate who often appears on television and radio shows. She has spoken on Fox News, The 700 Club, Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), One America News (OAN), Hannity, Focus on the Family, and more. 

Having earned her Master’s in Social Work, she speaks from a place of wisdom and authority mixed with much love and forgiveness. She is the author of You Carried Me: A Daughter’s Memoir, which chronicles her journey of meeting the birth mother who attempted to abort her. And Melissa is currently working on her second book, which focuses on other abortion survivors’ stories.

Alayna Shamo

Alli Bowers

For over 15 years, Alli has dedicated her professional life to the pro-life movement.

Cari Pemberton

Cari Pemberton has worn many hats in her career, from Marketing Assistant to an Area Development Manager to an Executive Assistant. She graduated from Colorado Christian University with a Bachelor of Science in Project Management, and Cari’s degree has served her well. Her background includes positions with the Alzheimer’s Association, Mercy Ships, Kansans for Life, and Patriot Voices. She has volunteered her time to serve as a gala co-chair and as a board member. She’s now looking forward to joining the Abortion Survivors Network. 

Adopted as an infant and married to a former foster child, Cari has a special place in her heart for adoption and foster care. She and her husband are raising two daughters and tending to a senior rescue dog. Cari enjoys reading, gardening, visiting historical sites, and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs.

Chloe Kramer

Kara West

Kara West has been with the Abortion Survivors Network (ASN) for just over two years and continues to feel honored to serve abortion survivors and their families. She loves connecting abortion survivors with other survivors, programs, and resources, in addition to supporting families who are learning how to raise an abortion survivor or support the survivor in their life.

Before joining ASN, Kara had been a therapist specializing in working with children and families for nine years. She is enthusiastic about pie (both the making of and the eating of), gardening, camping, and being outdoors!  She loves living the farm life in Minnesota with her husband and almost 3-year-old son.  Currently, they are in their second adoption journey and eagerly await adding to their family.

Molly Schwery

Molly started with the Abortion Survivors Network in June of 2023.  She brings with her a gift of organization, love of deep relationships and desire to uphold the dignity of life – with a passion for making those she encounters feel seen and loved. Prior to joining ASN, Molly taught 8^th grade math, was a Payroll Supervisor, and an Office Manager.  Her favorite job is her vocation of wife and mother. She resides in Kansas City with her husband Adam of 13 years, their 8-year-old son, and Blaze their whoodle (wheaten terrier and poodle) puppy. Molly loves daily walks, iced coffee, learning new things, and playing board games/cards. She feels most alive when out in nature – soaking in the beauty of God’s creation.

Sarah Moe

Sarah Moe is a natural leader and decision-maker. Her diverse background includes working with federal affairs, political fundraising, trade associations, PACs, and grassroots campaigns. Sarah is the President and founder of Sapphire Strategies. As an engaging communicator, Sarah’s lobbying efforts have led to successful campaigns on high-profile issues, including taxes, healthcare, trade, immigration, and pensions. She enjoys using her advocacy skills for Abortion Survivors Network. 

Growing up on the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana led Sarah to immerse herself in Hispanic culture. She shares a passion for the military community and those struggling with disabilities. Sarah values authentic relationships and believes authenticity drives successful advocacy for policy and legal changes. She lives by the 4 Cs…cool, calm, collected, and curious.