It’s no surprise that babies with Down syndrome are commonly referred to be “sunny.” After all, these kids are known for their friendliness, great responsiveness, genuine joy, and philanthropy. However, many parents are taken aback after learning about such a condition in their unborn children. They require time to accept their current situation and become truly satisfied.
So J. McConnell, 45, was shocked to learn that both of her future twins would have a genetic illness. Her initial inclination was to place the boys for adoption. But she found the strength to deal with the circumstances. Looking ahead, we can be certain that Mom did not regret it.
Julie and her husband, Dan, planned the pregnancy consciously and knew about the possible risks of conceiving and carrying a baby. But they so wanted another girl and could not miss their chance, despite the fact that the couple already had four children.
When the woman was already pregnant, she was surprised by the news of the twins. But other news shocked her greatly: both boys (according to the conclusion of the amniotic fluid analysis made at 15 weeks of pregnancy) were supposed to be born with Down syndrome.
Before starting a family, the McConnells were told about the risks of pathologies linked with their parents’ ages.
The McConnells say that the day their future children were diagnosed was the saddest day of their lives, and the months that followed were painfully terrible and traumatic.
Julie and Dan were terrified because they couldn’t conceive how they would raise children with special needs. However, after speaking with couples who had previously experienced a similar experience and receiving specific information, it became easier for them to accept the current circumstance.
During Julie’s tough pregnancy, the McConnells read a lot of literature about “sunny” youngsters and came to terms with how they would raise and communicate with their twins. The fear of their birth faded over time, and it was replaced by confidence and peace.
When a lady saw her twins for the first time, she felt tremendous joy and realized the mistake she may have made. “Just looking at them makes my heart race!” Julie agrees.
To date, the McConnells are happy. Geminis are everyone’s favorites! Their relatives take care of them and never cease to admire the funny and good-natured little boys. Older brothers are always ready to support, protect, help kids. For example, Andy, who is 3 years old, always introduces Charlie and Milo to other people, and also carries their favorite toys behind them (dolls especially liked the twins).
Everyone knows that the risk of birth of special children depends on the age of the expectant mother. So, at the age of 25, the probability of having babies with Down syndrome is 1/1400, but after 40 years it is about 1/60. But the chance of having twins with a similar genetic anomaly is approximately 14:1,000,000 people.
They make an effort to spend more time with the children, but they are concerned about their future: how people will treat them, whether their children would be abused and mocked, and how they will come to terms with themselves. However, this is already after… Meanwhile, the McConnells are content and loving every day of their lives! We also wish them happiness and success as they raise their children!