JBooher

As I mentioned before, I was unaware that my child would be born with DS. I had no idea of what I was in store for. The only regret that I have in not having the amnio is that I would have been better prepared for her "big moment" and could have planned a more joyous celebration. As it was, we were too shocked and devastated to truly enjoy such a blessed occassion. You have an advantage here. You can prepare yourself with knowledge and believe me, you will give birth to a truly special gift. My child is the most precious gift I've ever received! She did not have cardiac problems, she seems to be developing very well cognitively for a DS child, however, we have had a problem with hypotonia. When she was born, I chose to breastfeed her. However, she wasn't gaining weight and we finally realized she didn't have enough oral muscle tone to extract the milk herself. I was told by a friend that works for the WIC Program about a "Haberman Feeder" which was developed originally for the use by children with cleft palate. These are very expensive bottles (over $30 each) that have a special nipple that takes much less effort for the baby to drink from. ( I kept mine so they could possibly be of use to someone else if you're interested...free!) I do have a suggestion for a very good book, one that was the most valuable gift I've ever receive for a shower gift, called "Babies with Down Syndrome - A New Parent's Guide", edited by Karen Stray-Gunderson. You can purchase this book from the website: http://www.woodbinehouse.com. This publishing company has MANY helpful books for children with special needs. I would love to offer more information if you like, but right now I'm sure you're just trying to let the pill take effect. Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions you have at any time, now or in the future. May you and your husband find comfort in knowing that, all of the emotions that you are experiencing right now are normal (even the bad ones). You will reach a point when you have acceptence, and can finally enjoy your beautiful child. Children with Down Syndrome have so much to offer life. They have a pleasant disposition, they see only the good in life, and their slightest accomplishment is truly a grand event! I thank God every day for my little Audrey. She puts sunshine into the gloomiest day. I wouldn't change a thing. I wish you all the best! Here's my e-mail address: [email protected] And remember: no question is to small or too big, only unanswered if unasked.

I am a nursing student that is responding to you as a request by my instructor as I also have five children, the youngest with Down's. I, as we speak, am reminded of the devastation and overwhelming feeling that my husband and I experienced when our little Audrey was born. I didn't know until her birth, since I declined the amnio due to the risk of miscarriage. I knew that I could handle a child with Down's, but not another miscarriage. (I had one before my fourth child was conceived) I am going to be giving you an extended narrative of her/our life since birth, but I just wanted you to be expecting some (what I hope will be) useful information.