What is Down's syndrome?

Down syndrome, or Trisomy 21 as it is also commonly known, is a genetic condition that for many years as been shrouded in fear, darkness and shame. There is absolutely nothing to fear, and there never should be any feelings of shame IT IS NOT your fault. The only darkness associated with Down syndrome is the ignorance many people have towards it. As the old cliché goes: people fear what they don't know.
Basically Down syndrome means that your baby has one extra chromosome in each of the millions of cells in her body. Instead of 46 chromosomes babies with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes. The extra chromosome happens at the 21st pair, thus TRISOMY 21. It occurs in boys and girls equally, and it is one of the most common birth defects, occurring in all ethnic groups, nationalities, races and social-economic backgrounds. It can and does happen to anyone.
The chromosome is the genetic "information" that programs us. Because your child has an extra chromosome this will in large influence their characteristics. His or her appearance may be a little different than that of children without any genetic disorders, there may or may not be some specific medical conditions present also. (For further information on some medical conditions please go here.)
Two things are known for sure about DS. First, parents do not cause Down syndrome; nothing you did before or during your pregnancy caused Down syndrome. It is determined right at the moment of conception. Secondly, like "normal" (I have really come to despise that word) children, each baby with Down syndrome is unique! Each has it's own personality, talents, attitudes, and thoughts. There is NO predetermined destiny guiding your child, like other children your little darling will grow, learn and become a distinct individual
Many people are surprised to learn that Down syndrome is not the only chromosomal abnormality that can affect children. In fact there are quite a few others that can be present at birth. Parents are often amazed to learn how often abnormalities occur at conception, a significant number of chromosomal abnormalities don't actually let the embryos develop and as a result usually spontaneously aborts (miscarriages).
Although babies with Down Syndrome possess an extra number 21 chromosome, all of their other chromosomes are normal, in fact the material in the number 21 chromosome is also normal there is just too much of it. The presence of three copies of the 21st chromosome causes a genetic imbalance that alters the course of normal growth and development.

Resources
Down Syndrome- A Parents Resource
Breastfeeding a Baby with Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome- For New Parents
waiting with love What is? fact sheets
others' stories Best of resource articles Online journals
Guest book Discussion Board Chat Room Email me