The Beauty within...

After learning the confirmed diagnosis our baby would be born with Down syndrome, I was also surprised to learn that only 1/10 couples decide to continue with their pregnancy. That means 90% of women decide to terminate.  It seems like such a high number to me and quite honestly, I was surprised.  I am not judging by any stretch...it was a very difficult position to be in.  I empathize with any woman faced with the decision.  Making the best choice for my family and I was the hardest thing I've ever had to do.  I have always had strong feelings about abortion and it was not something I thought I could do no matter what the diagnosis, but I admit, I still struggled with it, nonetheless.  I don't think you can truly say what you'd do, until you are in the position to make that decision.  And at the end of the day, it is what is best for you and your family that matters most. And once the decision is made, there is no turning back.  It was a difficult and very emotional time for me, and I am so glad that part is over.  I can honestly say that I am at peace...the past is history and I am looking forward to the future and all the beauty my sweet baby will bring to me and to our family.

Since then I have obviously been doing alot of research and reading alot of books.  Aside from the learning delays and disabilities and all of the possible health risks, I have learned that babies, children and adults with Down syndrome have just as much potential as anyone else.  And to me, that is a beautiful thing.  Who are we to set limits and lower our expectations based on a number of chromosomes?  We all want what's best for our children.  And every child needs love, encouragement and someone to believe in them.  It is within our own ability to see the potential and beauty of our children, that will help them thrive, to grow, to learn...and to become the best adults they can be!

I stumbled across an article the other day that summarizes my thoughts.  It is written from a father's perspective, which I always find so heartwarming... You can read it here

In this short amount of time I have learned so much just from reading.  I know I will learn so much more once our little guy arrives, but in the meantime preparing is all I can do.  I often find myself searching crowds in the mall, bookstore or grocery store.  Looking for little ones with Down syndrome.  I'm not sure why, or what exactly I am looking for or hoping to see.  Perhaps I am searching for a little one that could possibly resemble our baby?  I feel that families of children with special needs are part of an invisible circle.  One that joins us together without even knowing or even saying word to each other.  Although I am still awaiting the arrival of my wee one, I feel like we already share a special bond.  One that would never had even existed if it weren't for Down syndrome.  Pretty beautiful...!