Update 6.1.09
Well, we know what it isn’t. The genetic counselor just called and the initial chromosomal report was negative for Trisomy 13, 18 and 21.
A quick genetics lesson…humans are supposed to have 23 pairs of chromosomes, thus making for 46 total. When you have three, where a pair should be, it’s called trisomy. And, when that trio is in place of a pair, particularly on the 13th pair, the 18th pair or the 21st pair, you have a child with Trisomy 13, 18 or 21 (more commonly known as Down’s Syndrome on the 21st chromosome).
So, it’s mostly likely not door #1. We get the full chromosomal report next Monday, where they test for things like spina bifida and a whole host of others. Initially, though, our genetic counselor is optimistic. And, so are we. We get the viral results later this week.
I don’t know if relieved is the right word. Actually, I don’t think it is. It’s more thankfulness that we know one answer to the piece of the puzzle.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention this sobering statistic. Of all the mom’s who find out their child has Down’s Syndrome, 91% – let me write that again – 91% choose to terminate the pregnancy. So, if those reports had come back and we had tested positive for Down’s Syndrome, we would be in a small 9% company. Shocking. Because this I know. The mom’s of Lucy, Patrick, Wade and Mitch are the bravest, most courageous, most optimistic, most faithful 9% of moms I know.
While you continue to offer up prayers on our behalf, I ask that you pray for those 91%. Who knows, you just might save a life today.
continuing to pray every day.
Maureen and Larry
I am relieved that they have narrowed it down a bit, and am anxious to find out the rest of the results. We will keep praying! I also pray for those babies that we will never get a chance to be because of an extra chromosome. Sad. Thank you for the compliment, but really my “normal” kids test me more than Lucy!! 🙂
Sending out positive vibes and love to the Whitakers!
Yea! Come on Baby Whitaker! Should we go to Sonic again before you find out the next round of information?
We’ll keep the prayers coming! Stay strong, my friend 🙂
Thanks for the update, K. Still praying in H’town.
You continue to be in our prayers. I know God has a beautiful plan for your lives.
What a blessing our faith is and how lucky are we for what it provides-
Prayers assured from the Terracina’s.
Kevin and I just read your post and Kevin applauded
you…literally, and said, "that is a good woman of great faith." So, we are praying for you and Scott that good news keeps on coming your way.