April 3, 2008 was a day that Troy and I will not soon forget. At 16 weeks into our pregnancy, my OB sent us to a maternal fetal medicine specialist for a specialized ultrasound. Because of my "advanced maternal age", this was considered a routine check. I don't like the sound of "advanced age", but i'm healthy, in decent shape and have had 2 previous uncomplicated pregnancies! So, with no cause for alarm, we went to the doctor excited to find out if baby would make 3 girls or if we were in for a new experience with a boy.
To us, the medically unexperienced, the baby looked great! The tech was able to tell us that it's a boy!! Our excitement was soon shattered as the doctor explained that he was seeing many markers (including measurements and physical characteristics) that indicated that our baby has Trisomy 18. He went on to explain that Trisomy 18 is a chromosome disorder that affects 1 in 3000 babies. This occurs when the baby has three chromosome 18 instead of two. Only 10% of babies with T18 live to be a year old. A later amniocentisis confirmed that our son has full Trisomy 18. Needless to say, this was total shock and a lot for us to absorb.
Troy and I decided that day in the doctor's office that God has given us this child, and He has a plan for our family and this baby. Though we don't clearly see the plan at this point, we know that God is with us and will guide us every step of the way.
We have previously shared this with our family and some close friends. Many of you we see in the hall at work or church or at our children's activities and you ask how we are or how the baby is and we say "good" or "fine". Obviously, we haven't felt that those times are the best opportunity to share our story. I decided to start this blog at the suggestion of a wonderful Christian woman, who shares a similar story, as a way of updating family and friends on the progress of this pregnancy and our thoughts. Please pray for our family - for strength, health and peace.
Karen
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
