Something a pregnant mom rarely voices, but so often thinks about is "will my child have an extra chromosome?" That magic number 21 turning the chromosome count to 47 instead of 46. That fear that wracks so many women until their baby is born.
Down Syndrome.
At my 12 week appointment with both of my pregnancies I was asked if we wanted to do the chromosomal testing. I had asked what the reason for the testing was told that the biggest determining result would be finding out if our baby would have down syndrome. I asked if it was suggested. My Dr. then asked me in return "would the results matter to you?" I had a simple answer. No. If we were to have a baby with down syndrome then of course, we would seek God in figuring out how to be the best parents we could be. But, I still had my doubts. No, it was more fear. It bugged me, that I was fearful of down syndrome, yet accepting of it if God chose us. I think it's the fear of the unknown. The fear of uncertainty. The fear that I wouldn't be able to provide the baby/the child/the adult, with everything he/she would deserve. I really don't know what it is.
However, there is a beauty in Down Syndrome that often goes unnoticed.
I want to ask you all to consider something...
Please read this blog:
Her story is utterly beautiful. It's wonderfully transparent. This woman is amazing. Her gift of writing and photography is wonderful. And what a mom; her strength is astounding, her commitment is admirable, her love for her children is endearing. And her daughters? BOTH beautiful.
Then, please go here:
Wonderful. Beautiful. True.
Readers: After spending time reading Kelle's story, I have to say the fear has subsided. I love that she gives a voice to down syndrome in such a lovely way. What were your fears when you were pregnant? And please consider donating!
Wow. There are no words. Thank you for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteGreta, I love Kelle's blog and that post especially. I used to be afraid of Downs too and her blog has opened my eyes so much. Thanks for your sweet words on my blog, I definitely noticed you blog hiatus and missed you! xo
ReplyDeleteI had to deal with this question in my last pregnancy. The reason I chose to have the test done was only so my husband and I would be prepared to deal with the challenges ahead. It's overwhelming enough to have a newborn. Good post.
ReplyDeleteOn a much lighter note, I LOVE your logo picture!
Yanet of 3 Sun Kissed Boys
Hey Greta- During breakfast this morning I was catching up on your blog and started reading Kelle's and of course it made me cry. Isak got so worried (don't think he had ever seen me cry before) so I had to pull him out of his highchair with oatmeal covered all over his face and hands and of course he wanted to cuddle. So here I sit snot and oatmeal covered, but thank you for sharing such a beautiful blog. Also, Kadyn has such a sweet spirit...love the Ah-Poh-Pee-At story. I can't believe you have to start dealing with this at four years old!
ReplyDelete@whitney--I totally agree, no words.
ReplyDelete@Ashley--Because of her blog I can honestly say I am no longer "afraid" of it as I was before.
@Yanet--I totally understand finding out to be prepared. Thanks for the complement about the logo picture :) I have to say, I love yours too. Back profiles are my favorite.
@Chelsea--I still cry every time I read her birth story of Nella. It's heartfelt, honest, raw, and beautiful. Sorry to hear Isak didn't take well to you crying...what a sweet boy to want to cuddle. I remember Kadyn doing the same thing when I would throw up while I was pregnant with Kai. Hope you were able to get a shower in today ;)
I read this story when it first came out about a year ago and it absolutely touched my heart. I was pregnant at the time I read it and while said fear will likely linger with any mother, her beautiful and amazing story made it a little better. God is good and he knows what he is doing. Goodness me, that little girls is stinking adorable!
ReplyDeleteHi Greta (Love your name...it was always on my baby name lists, but we went with "Nora" instead :)
ReplyDeleteI am a friend of Meghan Ross (sweet girl!). I am also a HUGE fan of Kelle Hampton's blog, and Nella is our hero. In July I had my sweet girl who was unexpectedly born with Down Syndrome---devastating to say the least. Need-less-to say, Kelle is my voice, my source for being heard and for healing. When I can't talk about it, she can. And she perfects my thoughts with the most beautifully poetic words.
Thank you for your interest. I just posted a request on Facebook to make a donation to the ONEder Fund, and your request just makes my heart swell even more :)
Sincerely,
Kelly Cach