A Video

While I was pregnant, I often tried to picture what it would be like when I was finally able to hold Austin. When I found out that there “might” be a chance that Austin could have Down syndrome, I wondered if I would even be able to hold Austin? Would I want to? Those thoughts seem completely irrational now, but at the time they were anything but that.

Now that I’m a mom, I know what that “instant love” is. I know that Austin could’ve been born with one eye and twelve toes and I’d never love him any less.  Until you become a parent, you’ll never understand this type of unconditional love.

Trisomy 18 is a genetic disorder. Sadly, there is a high mortality rate for children with Trisomy 18 before or shortly after birth. In other words, a child with Trisomy 18 will generally pass away a few hours after birth…or a few months or years. The lifespan for a child born with Trisomy 18 is usually very short. I can’t imagine only having Austin for a few months or years. I looked up different genetic disorders shortly after Austin was born. I came across a website that shared stories about Trisomy 18. It really put things into perspective for me. It reminded me of how blessed we are.

As most of you know, I’m NOT a political person. However, this video is about a Politician’s family/personal experience with Trisomy 18. Regardless of your political or religious affiliations…this video is worth viewing.  :)