Mark Leach is an attorney with a Master's in Bioethics, focusing on health law and public contracts. His interest in bioethics concerns the issues surrounding prenatal testing and Down syndrome.

This week, give a lifeline to expectant parents

This week, a purchase from Sevenly will provide a book that gives critical information to expectant parents who have recently learned about a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome. With your support, parents will receive tools and support, empowering them to cope and prepare for the challenges and rewards in store for them. Your purchase will give much more than a book, it will give a family a lifeline. 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

The Shape of the Eye: our diagnoses do not define us

The Shape of the Eye was originally published in 2011. This Spring, it was re-issued in paperback and is enjoying the attention it deserves. A memoir by George Estreich about many things, but prompted by the birth of his daughter Laura, it has much to share for all of us. Continue Reading

The power of context: how what’s missing informs the context

In previous posts, I have asked whether Down syndrome is already disappearing and the power of context as the remaining element to tip prenatal testing to the point of an epidemic. Here's how the first post reinforces the second. Continue Reading

For Father’s Day: what to do after a Down syndrome prenatal test result

Last week, a mom posted what she would like a mother with a Down syndrome prenatal test result to know. It inspired Tim Shriver, Chairman and CEO of Special Olympics, to offer his own thoughts. So, for what it's worth, on this Father's Day, here's my two cents. 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

The power of context to create a Down syndrome prenatal testing epidemic

In his National Bestseller, The Tipping Point: how little things can make a big difference, Malcolm Gladwell identifies three elements to creating an epidemic, from the spread of disease to a social trend. With two of the three being built into prenatal testing for Down syndrome, the final element will determine the tipping point of whether prenatal testing becomes an epidemic. 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

You may decline prenatal testing, but you may be choosing to be sued if you do

Last week, Art Caplan, a well-known bioethicist, wrote a post for Harvard Law's Bill of Health blog. The post prompted one commenter to write, "Caplan, you are a laughable clown." Whatever did Caplan write? Continue Reading