Evangeline's story. Our journey with T18

    Imagine a world where no special needs children exist? I'm sure many could advocate for why they think that is a good thing, but let me tell you what we would lose. We would lose the joy and laughter a child with an extra chromosome can bring. We would miss out on the lessons taught around acceptance, inclusivity and empathy. Yet isn't that the goal of prenatal genetic testing? To terminate children with extra chromosomes? Before they even get the chance to change the world for the better? I don't know about you but that's not actually a world I  want to be apart of.  Yet already in countries like Iceland there is a 100% abortion rate for children with Down Syndrome. I think it goes without saying that means 100% abortion rate for children like my sweet Evangeline with an extra 18th Chromosome too. I grew up in a time before prenatal genetic testing (I think it's been around about 10 years in NZ), that means that I went to school with several special needs child...

Have you ever been in a situation with someone who has gone through a tragedy, received a diagnosis, lost a loved one, wrestled with depression, miscarried or separated in their marriage and not known what to say?  We all have right. I'm the first to admit, in situations where I can't personally relate, I haven't always known what to say, and I have for sure said the wrong things at times too. I'm writing this blog today to tell those who ever have had someone let you in on their pain, their grief, their heartbreak, or share their struggle with you, don't avoid it, say something. The worst thing you can possibly say is nothing at all. Even if all you say is "I am so sorry you’re going through this, or "there really are no words."  Trust me it is better than awkward silence or changing the subject. Which communicates, unintentionally, a lack of care or that the persons feelings are not valid or are not worthy of being shared One thing that has surprise...