What is something unique and special about your child with trisomy that you wish more people knew?

Teddy was so happy and had a great quality of life. We were told he would probably never even know who we were but he clearly knew his parents, his sister and his family. And he was a regular baby! He loved being outside, he played with toys, calmed when we held him, enjoyed listening to music, smiled whenever we kissed his cheeks or when he heard his sister being silly, and so much more. He was just as deserving of life and love as any baby!

Why do you believe raising awareness about trisomy conditions is important, and how can others make a difference?

It is heartbreaking that the very medical professionals who we trust to help our children are often the ones pushing for termination or refusing interventions. We can make a difference together by advocating for our children and by making our medical communities aware of the potential and the value that our children all have.

During Trisomy Awareness Month, what message would you like to share with the world about your family’s journey and the trisomy community?

This trisomy journey is one I never imagined having to take, but it was worth every second. I’m so grateful for the trisomy community and SOFT for giving us the support and information we needed to advocate for full interventions for our son. Without their help we would not have known to fight for care and would have never gotten a precious 11 months with our son. We never would have gotten to see him grow up, learn how to take a bottle or roll over, seen his precious smile, spent time together getting to know his precious family and friends, or any of the other many amazing things he accomplished. He forever changed the hearts of his parents, sister, family and friends. Fighting for our children will always be worth it!