Search Results for: Our story

The role of community in dealing with loss

In his recent book, Rod Dreher shares the story of his sister Ruthie's final time on earth battling  lung cancer and how it led him back to his small hometown in Louisiana. The book caused me to weep, and has a message worth sharing here. Continue Reading

Hundreds signing up to adopt a child with Down syndrome should not be surprising

A recent news story reported as a surprising result that hundreds of parents had volunteered to adopt a child when the call was put out. The turnout was indeed overwhelming, but in the end only one couple will adopt this child. Hopefully the hundreds of others will reach out to adopt the many other children with Down syndrome waiting to be adopted. Continue Reading

USA Today discriminates against Down syndrome

In a recent editorial, USA Today's editorial board expressed "Our view" that discriminates against Down syndrome and perpetuates the societal stigma against those with the genetic condition.  Continue Reading

America’s creed: will Down syndrome prenatal testing abide by it?

In honor of this week's July 4th holiday, I wonder whether the administration of Down syndrome prenatal testing will abide by America's creed.  Continue Reading

How do you view those labeled “handicapped”?

 I was part of the generation that grew up with Mr. Rogers. In his caring way, he taught us many things. Some videos now available on YouTube share his lesson in word and deed on how to view others, particularly those with disabilities. Continue Reading

It’s not about information; it’s about selling information

Yesterday, the United States Supreme Court ruled that genes cannot be patented. This may not stop competing NIPS labs from trying to enjoin their competitors. But, the ruling reveals a point that gets lost in the celebration of genomics. Continue Reading

What are we losing if Down syndrome disappears?

In a previous post, I reported on an account that suggests Down syndrome may already be starting to disappear from our society. But, if that is the case, what are we losing if Down syndrome disappears? Continue Reading

The world doesn’t get to have it both ways with Down syndrome

Last week, my daughter was assessed to determine whether she qualified for a waiver under our state's Medicaid program. When informed that she may be initially denied--and many wrongfully are--I thought, "you don't get to have it both ways." Continue Reading

What to do with a poorly wrapped gift?

A featured letter to the editor posed a question that offers a different perspective on a prenatal test result for Down syndrome. Continue Reading