The Slippery Slope

Every couple gets screened for Down Syndrome around Week 12. Josh and I were apprehensive about it because well, who wouldn't be? I gave blood and had an ultrasound that measured the back of the baby's neck. Some algorithm gave us 1 in 32,000 chance of the baby having Downs. I guess that means we are basically in the clear.

Josh couldn't go with me so this was his response when I told him the good news.

A while back I read this blog post from a mom who didn't realize her daughter had Downs until she was born (I guess in Italy the test is not routine). Her honesty and the pictures that detailed the event...wow, just wow. I cried about it then, I can cry about it now just thinking about it. It is that moving. Here, you read it.

Nella Cordelia - A Birth Story

Did you read it?

The whole matter of genetic screening is a testament to the advancement of medicine but also there's a point where you wonder if it is creating more strain than necessary. Early on in our pregnancy I gave blood to do the genetic screening. The doctor called with the results and told me I tested positive for one of the genetic deficiencies. 

I was too flustered to get the details right or ask which one it was so Josh could look it up. He said the baby would be okay but would have to be on a special diet for the rest of its life. Josh needed to come in to get tested for the same deficiency. If he tested positive the baby would have the problem, if he didn't then the baby wouldn't. So we spent weeks worrying and praying about it everyday. Turns out Josh wasn't a carrier so the baby was in the clear. 

Immediate relief. The waiting game is a slippery slope and what often comes out positive also comes out negative. 

My growing stomach is a constant reminder of God's goodness, grace, and favor on us. Every time I look down or get a glimpse of my reflection I raise up a thankful heart to the Lord for this bounty of blessings he is giving us.