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I will never forget Danielle telling me that her tests came back positive; that there was a 90% chance that their son would be born with DS. All of the markers were there. Danielle and her husband moved forward, wishing on every star that their son would be OK. Those months ahead were not enjoyable. They were full of stress, reading and questioning, only to deliver a healthy, happy beautiful baby! Imagine that!
I am thrilled to say that society is welcoming a season of change regarding how people with Down syndrome are viewed.
Three years ago Danielle, a very dear friend of mine for the past 29 years, announced she was having a third son. I will never forget Danielle telling me that her tests came back positive; that there was a 90% chance that their son would be born with Down syndrome. All of the markers were there. Danielle and her husband moved forward, wishing on every star that their son would be OK.
Those months ahead were not enjoyable. They were full of stress, reading and questioning, only to deliver a healthy, happy beautiful baby! Imagine that!
Our son, Michael's Down syndrome went undetected, but yet, he was born with that one extra chromosome and Danielle's son was given a 90% chance but born without it.
Clearly, a decision based on these odds would be like being in Vegas and going all in on red.
Lastly, reading and learning about Down syndrome is unequivocally different from touching, seeing, loving, sharing, caring and knowing someone with Down syndrome.
Initially, Ryan and I were nervous about what Michael's health issues may be, but our feelings of utter acceptance and unconditional love never wavered. Neither of us ever asking, "why us?" Or saying "we would've..."
We all have a beautiful life to live! When life throws us hard decisions, sometimes, it's best to "Let it Be." Allowing life to take its course. Just keep walking letting your heart shine the way, your mind will catch up!
I have already learned so much from Michael in the past 9 months. The only "job" to be "handled" is keeping my sanity with three babies and raising them to see past stereotypes, to speak with love and kindness and to walk without judgment.
Everyday, Michael's smile awakens my heart and soul even more. I feel happier, lighter, LUCKY! I clean less and party more. We laugh and sing, but most importantly, we dance!
Christi’s blogs are a voice given to the awakening “Aha”moments of living life as a wife, mother of three and entrepreneur. City and country collide with Christi and her husband owning Lily Mack Farm in Massachusetts, where she plants “seeds of change” as well as Christmas trees, flowers and honey while also juggling her fashion firm, Black Box Enterprises. She is a student of having a son with Down Syndrome; a lover of music and is mastering the technique of “Living Brightly!” . To read more posts/articles by Christi and to connect with her click HERE.
Let it