Archives for 2017

Cure for Down syndrome promised with just a single injection

If you could give your loved one with Down syndrome a shot that would eliminate their extra 21st Chromosome, would you? This may be a very real question in the not too distant future.  Continue Reading

The cold, dumb logic of cost-effectiveness justification for prenatal genetic testing

Down syndrome has long been called the "canary in the genetics coalmine." Here's another example of why.  Continue Reading

Our Story: Support when you need it

Over Labor Day weekend, we experienced an emergency situation. Fortunately, support was there when we needed it. Continue Reading

Ohio’s Down Syndrome Abortion Bill: Avoiding the Issue

For the second time, an Ohio state representative has introduced a bill to ban abortion when the stated reason is a prenatal test result for Down syndrome. The debate about the bill, and the measure itself, avoid the issue about Down syndrome selective abortion.  Continue Reading

Eclipsing Down syndrome

On August 21, 2017, the first full solar eclipse spanned the continental United States. Our family was there to see it and the experience prompted this reflection on what the world is doing to those with Down syndrome.  Continue Reading

Persistent challenges: bigotry and ethical prenatal testing

A visit to National Park sites, a presentation to medical professionals in Kansas City, a violent protest in Charlottesville, and a news report out of Iceland all came together in less than a week as a reminder of the persistent challenge of our bigotry against our fellow human beings.  Continue Reading

Iowa Supreme Court recognizes wrongful birth claim

On June 2, 2017, the Iowa Supreme Court recognized for the first time the claim of "wrongful birth". The Court also recognized that the state legislature may enact legislation barring such claims.  Continue Reading

Research & Potential Treatments for Down Syndrome: What Do You Think?

At the beginning of June, I attended a conference of researchers seeking treatments for conditions associated with Down syndrome. This month, a survey is seeking your input on what you think about treatments for Down syndrome.  Continue Reading

Baby Doe Redux, but even worse

In March, parents trusted their doctors with the care for their son with a very rare condition. The doctors have now convinced courts to rule that death is more beneficial for the child than continued treatment. And, the parents can't do anything about it.  Continue Reading