Should people have an abortion if they know their child is going to be Down Synd

Personally, I would not have an abortion. If I was going to have a bab with Down Syndrome and I knew about it, then I would do as much preparing and resaerch as possible so that I could do my best in making their life as happy as possible. I don't think Down Syndrome would make their life unhappy. On the other hand, if I found out I was having a baby that was going to be born with a disease that made them suffer and live in pain, then I would consider abortion. It would depend on how they would be suffering. I couldn't bare to watch them suffer in pain everyday. But Down Syndrome isn't a disease where anyone is in pain or suffering. They are loving people and can live and be happy.

I wouldn't ever, I used to work with the Special Olympics and the children that had down syndrome were so sweet and had a great joy for life.

Absolutely not! People with Down Syndrome are loyal, sweet individuals who make me smile whenever I see them. I'm so sad that many people choose to abort a kid with Down Syndrome (or any other detactable in utero disability). We as disabled people have a right to exist with the services and support that will enable us to truly live as independent, productive people. I realize the reason some people elect abortion is because they have misguidance of what living with disability really involves. I've been living with a significant disability all my life. It's hard at times, but it's better than not existing. I write poetry books, earn my own money online, and I'm looking for a full time job helping people with disabilities. I live on my own with supports (I get 16 hours of state funded support from personal care assistants a day). I try to volunteer and be a good person, so as to contribute in exchange for these services. So far, I mentor other people with disabilities, advocate for more homecare supports nationally and in my state, and I've even run for political office. I enjoy educating people and public speaking. I love movies, reading, and being with my friends. My life isn't perfect (no one's is), but it's pretty awesome if I do say so myself. I slso know that another reason people abort is fear that the disabled child will overtake their life and leave no time for their other kids, their spouse/significant other, or themselves. Although disabled children require more work, they don't need to become the sole focus of you're life. If you know your kid will have disability, your life might just be easier than someone who's child suddenly acquires one. They have nine months to move to an environment or area that will be more accomodating, modify their house as needed, enroll their child in support programs (even before their born), and find good solid people willing to provide them with that much needed break and watch the kid for a few hours or an overnight.

I definitely do not believe a Down Synd unborn baby should be aborted. That is a life from the moment that baby is conceived. I have been around Down Synd children and they are the sweetest people you have ever seen. They give love so freely. It is not our place as a mom to judge whether the baby has a right to live based on a defect that it has.

I completely agree. I can't see why on earth anyone would want to have an abortion if their child had or will have down syndrome. They are precious angels from above that have every right to live just like anyone else. Thanks for sharing your thoughts

true it is the most precious blessing that god has given.

Well, if I had my beautiful son would not exist. Also, if my adopted son's mother had chosen abortion, he would not have come into my life. My boys are a gift!

Down Syndrome in my opinion, is one of the least serious birth defects that a couple may face. Not to negate the seriousness or the sacrifices they will need to face, at least medically speaking their child will likely be fine. He or she will need some special care, but again will more than likely be alright. There are dozens of birth defects far more serious than down syndrome. Neural tube defects can lead to children being born without fully developed brains, with nothing more than a primitive brain stem. The brain stem controls automatic functions such as breathing & defecating, but those children will be incapable of doing anything more than those things- quite often not even being able to do those basic things without machinery (depending on how developed the brain stem is). There are children born with heart deformities who are incompatible with life, but who will suffer for hours, days or even longer before passing. I feel blessed that I have never had to face such a horrendous choice. It's inhumane & awful that others feel they can judge parents who have had to make those choices.

I feel that children borne with certain illnesses are put on this earth to teach us a lesson in acceptance, and those whoare not willing to even give it a moments glance are not worht my time or for anyone elses for that matter, if things are not going to work out there is always child services, for I am sure that there is a family out there who has enough love that they could spare a little for those who need it the most.

dear sir, thank you so much for your empathy. that was such a very uplifting 'defense' for people who are born not quite 'normal'. as a special person myself, i could say that life for people like us was/is never easy. the mockery alone that we have to live with each passing day could be quite soul-crashing. and that's just one of the aspects that we have to contend with all throughout our days!... thank you so much for being a champion for our cause.