Raising Awareness

Since Lucas has been born he has brightened our world in every way possible, just as any baby does, to parents as well as friends and family.  In addition, the fact that Lucas was born with an extra chromosome has opened our eyes to Down syndrome and allowed us to not only be educated but also brought so many wonderful people into our lives.  Recently along this journey we became active in a photo campaign with the organization Saving Down syndrome who's mission is to ensure that antenatal screening exists only to provide unborn children with Down Syndrome and their parents with life-affirming, unbiased care through education, support and understanding.

Due to the fact that there are so many half truths out there and mounds of misinformation given to expectant parents of a baby that will be born with DS we decided to join in their efforts.  This organization is based out of New Zealand where many governmental policy changes still are needed to affirm this organizations mission.

We did have a prenatal test that allowed Carlos and myself to know in advance that our baby would have a little "extra something" but we also had wonderful medical staff, family and friends that provided unbiased information and communication to help us through the process.  This is critical and needed for parents that find themselves in the same shoes as Carlos and myself.  If our experience had been different I am not sure how things might have turned out but we are ever so thankful that Lucas was brought to us.  He is our world!  And just like the campaign says, "Down Syndrome: so what?" because our son should be and will be treated just like everyone else!