Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!  What a beautiful article!  I have always been involved in the pro-life movement.  I had NO idea the high rate of children who were aborted with Down syndrome until this past year! 

I wish I could say that my experience was quite as beautiful as Kurt's but my initial reaction was not as peaceful.  I, too, did not have any genetic testing because I was 24!  When my son was born with Down syndrome I was scared, shocked, and devastated! I thought this was the end of my life as I knew it.  We didn't have any money and I thought our hopes for a big family stopped with him. 

I wish I could say I was immediately cheerful and in love but that wasn't true.  I had incredible pro-life Catholic doctors and I was amazed at their excitement for me. They didn't seem sad or disappointed at all with my son Edward's diagnosis (they were a bit more sad about his health since he was quite sick when he was first born).  They were joyful for me and at the time it seemed a bit strange. 

Now I completely understand.  In Eddie's first week of life he changed more lives than I think I had in my 24 years.  He has been a constant blessing and joy to my husband and me (not to mention his grandparents).  I thank God for the beautiful gift He has given me. 

I always knew my calling was to work in the Pro-Life Movement, but Eddie has just reinforced that even more. We still struggle to make ends meet and give him everything he needs. But God has provided us with everything we have needed along the way.  

Eddie is only 13 months old, but I cannot imagine my life without him. I look forward to my unexpected and exciting life with him.  He has not stifled our hopes for a big family.  We know that he will be an integral part in the holiness of our family, and I have no doubt that he will be an incredible big brother some day!

Thanks for the beautiful article!

Melissa Sloan 

PS: Eddie danced through the whole video of Chloe; he LOVES good music and is one heck of a dancer!