Finding Hope and Strength: Christina Cardoza and Theodore’s Journey

Introduction

For many parents, a trisomy diagnosis brings overwhelming emotions and uncertainty. But for Christina Cardoza, the journey with her son, Theodore, became one of hope, resilience, and advocacy. As a sonographer, she had seen medical diagnoses before, but nothing could prepare her for the personal impact of hearing those words about her own child. Through heartbreak, love, and an evolving perspective, Christina discovered the power of fighting for her child’s life. This is her story.

A Devastating Diagnosis

When Christina first learned that Theodore had Full Trisomy 13, her heart shattered. She had studied the medical textbooks, and the prognosis seemed bleak. As a professional in the field, she knew what doctors would say—trisomy conditions were often labeled as “incompatible with life.” The fear of what the future held for her son was overwhelming.

“I was heartbroken. As a sonographer, I learned in school that trisomy 13 was fatal and my heart shattered thinking that we wouldn’t get any significant time with our son. It wasn’t until I found support through SOFT and trisomy Facebook groups that I realized there was hope for our baby.”

But despite the initial heartbreak, she refused to let medical definitions dictate her son’s fate. Theodore was her child, and she would love him fiercely, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

The Day Theodore Was Born

When the day finally arrived, Christina and her family were filled with an overwhelming sense of love. They had braced themselves for uncertainty, but the moment they held Theodore, everything else faded away. He was here, he was loved, and his life mattered.

“We were filled with so much love for our son and felt relief that he was breathing on his own, contrary to what doctors told us to expect. Even though we had requested interventions, after Teddy was born we were told that he wouldn’t be admitted to the NICU for care because his condition was “fatal.” We knew he needed a simple cardiac catch for a PDA stent or else he would have passed away within a few days. So we had to call the patient advocates and fought for full interventions and care. After getting the proper care and the PDA stent, he did so well and came home at just 4 weeks old. He spent most of his 11 months comfortably at home!”

The day was emotional in ways they had never imagined, not because of fear, but because of the immense joy of meeting their son. In that moment, Christina realized something profound: Theodore was not a diagnosis—he was a beautiful, cherished child.

Changing Perspectives: From Fear to Advocacy

Over time, Christina’s understanding of Trisomy 13 shifted dramatically. What she had once believed to be a fatal condition proved to be far more complex. The medical world often viewed trisomy as a closed door, but in reality, many children defied expectations, thrived, and brought endless joy to their families.

“I went from believing trisomy was actually fatal, to realizing how many children thrive for a long length of time when given proper treatment. The hardest thing was dealing with medical professionals who thought less of our son because of his condition and those who didn’t want to treat him. We also struggled daily with knowing our time with our son was limited.”

Yes, there were challenges. Theodore’s diagnosis included RV to aorta with pulmonary atresia, adding medical complexities that required constant attention and advocacy. But through every difficult moment, there were also victories—smiles, milestones, and moments of pure happiness that reminded Christina why she was fighting so hard for her son.

The Power of Community and Resources

No one walks this journey alone, and Christina found immense support in the trisomy community. The SOFT website became an invaluable resource, offering medical insights, real-life stories, and connections with families who truly understood what they were going through.

“The SOFT website was incredibly helpful for us along with the SOFT and the “Trisomy 13 life support-living with Patau syndrome” Facebook groups. My parents were incredibly supportive and helpful from day one and our family was such a big help throughout our journey. Our church and pastor were such a blessing through this journey as well.”

Knowing that others had walked a similar path and had successfully advocated for their children gave Christina the strength to push forward. Whether it was through medical networks, fellow trisomy parents, or advocacy organizations, she found hope in shared experiences and strength in knowing she was not alone.

A Message to Other Trisomy Parents

To parents who have just received a trisomy diagnosis, Christina has one powerful piece of advice: Fight for your child.

Doctors will tell you statistics. They may make predictions based on medical literature, but every child is unique. Theodore’s life is proof that trisomy is not a predetermined outcome—it is a journey filled with possibility, love, and resilience.

“If there is anything that can be done to help your child live, then fight for it,” Christina urges. Every child deserves a chance, and no one can predict what that journey will look like. Hope is always worth holding onto.

Conclusion

Christina Cardoza’s story with her son, Theodore, is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and advocacy. From heartbreak to hope, she has learned that a diagnosis does not define a child—their spirit, their joy, and the love they bring to the world do. For parents facing similar news, Christina’s journey is a reminder that, even in the face of uncertainty, there is always a reason to fight and believe in the possibilities ahead.