Day 19

Did you know that some doctors and abortionists directly encourage the termination of a pregnancy where the fetus could have disabilities (such as down syndrome)?

During one of my mom's last pregnancies, she was in her early 40's. Because she was closer to the end of child-bearing years, this pregnancy was considered high-risk for multiple reasons. Doctors encouraged her to get an amniotic test; when she asked why, they said it could help determine if her unborn baby had down syndrome. When she asked what good this knowledge would do, they essentially said that if the results showed her baby down syndrome then she could terminate her pregnancy through abortion and avoid having to take care of a disabled child.

Abortion directly discriminates against those with disabilities. Individuals with down syndrome or other special needs are just as valuable and deserve life just as much as anyone else. By fighting against abortion and creating a world where it is no longer acceptable, we create a safer world for people with disabilities. Our physical impediments or unique circumstances do not determine our worthiness for life, and that is not a choice that others should be able to make.

How can you help? Consider donating to the National Down Syndrome Society or join them in their upcoming NDSS Race in Washington D.C.

Continue to educate yourself by watching the following video which discusses the down syndrome abortion crisis . While you watch, think about this: Dr. Peter Stone, as mentioned in the video, discusses that the prenatal amniotic and blood testing is to help women make choices. He says that if women don't want to have a child with a disability and they can't handle it, then that's their choice. But is human life only valuable when others can "handle" it, or when it's convenient for others? No! Some of the sweetest and most compassionate people I have met have disabilities, and they make the world a better place. Their lives matter.

If you or someone you know is facing a crisis or down syndrome pregnancy, there are resources for you. Talk to your local pregnancy resource center about adoption agencies or support programs. To learn more about available resources, visit our Resources page.