Amnio Test Positive. My Baby Has Downs. Now What?

All I can give you are my prayers. May God bless you and your new little one and your family.

Hi there and congratulations on your upcoming baby. I have a daughter with DS who justed turned 2 in Nov. We didn't find out in advance and didn't test (because like you, it didn't matter, we would have had her anyway). She has been a delight to us and everyone that she comes into contact with. It is definitely an adventure with lots of ups and a few downs but lots of joy throughout. The best advice I can give you is to not read too much (it can be overwhelming) and establish connections thru the DSACF with other parents. They are going to give you the best guidance and support.

There is a play group that meets a few times a month where you can meet other parents with children under 5 w/DS and there is also a Mom's night out coming up in Jan where you can just sit and have dinner with other mom's without all the kids around and ask as many questions as you like. Great support from women who have been where you are now.

In regards to your question about financial help. There is a program that helps pay for therapy and other needs of children who are at risk. DS automatically qualifies your son for this program. To find out more you can contact the DSACF and ask them to put you in contact with someone from the Early Steps Program, I'll warn you in advance that it can be a little confusing at first but basically, its a program that will help until your child turns 3 yrs.

I am also pregnant, due in July. I know that pregnancy is a very emotional time and the news you received can sap some of the joy out of what should be a very happy time for you and your family. God has your little one in his hands and he will guide you through the journey that is to come and place people in your path that can help. Congratulations again on your little bundle of joy.

S.

I want to wish all the best to you and your growing family. You are fortunate that people like Sandi E are out there. Listen to what she says and don't read too much, a good parent support group will be the best source of information you will ever need. I have a son with autism and parent support helped not only with information, but emotionally also. Again, best of luck and god bless you and your family.

First I just want to say I think it's awesome that you realize that this is a gift from God. Just put all your faith in him and he will carry you through this. Neither of my children have special needs, however, when my daughter was just 3 months old she had to have major brain and skull surgery. Looking back, it was the awesome support system I had and GOD!!!

I will ask some friends about the resources out there.

Are you in Deltona? Deltona Lakes Baptist Church has an amazing group of Godly women. We get together 1-3 times a week.

Take care.

"I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me"
Philippians 4:13