A very popular YouTube couple expecting their first child chose to terminate the pregnancy after discovering the baby had a high chance of being born with Down syndrome. He shared the news with complications that can come with the condition.
“Down syndrome carries a very HIGH risk of miscarriage and usually comes with heart defects, structural abnormalities, developmental issues, shorter lifespan, etc. As excited as we are to become parents, this was a gut-punch”, he shared with his followers.
Yes, Down syndrome comes with complications. However, the complications are only part of the story. Down syndrome is actually a very common, “occurring in 1 of 700 live births”. Many people with Down syndrome live fulfilling lives, with some going on to college and living independently. With medical and technological advancements, the lifespan of people with Down syndrome has increased to around 60 years of age.
I have Turner syndrome, which is a genetic disorder like Down syndrome. Turner syndrome also comes with a lot of complications. Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder, and can be diagnosed in the womb through genetic testing like Down syndrome. I wasn’t diagnosed until I was around 13 years old, but it is possible my parents could have found out I have Turner syndrome before I was even born. They would have been able to choose abortion due to the fear of complications and raising a special needs child. My parents would not have chosen that route. However, they could have, and I would not be here sharing my story on my blog.
I’ve seen expecting parents express fear at having a child with Turner syndrome, just like I’m sure expecting parents do when having a child with Down syndrome. Knowing your child will have special needs can be scary. Raising a child with special needs is hard. I get it. This is why support and sound facts are important, all the facts. Yes, parents need to know life might be hard for their special needs child, but parents also need to know life can be happy and fulfilling for that child as well. It’s not all gloom and doom.
I’m happy to be alive, and I know I’m here for a reason. I believe that YouTube couple’s baby had a purpose too. Sadly, we’ll never know what it would have been.
Life with Charli 