Thursday, March 24, 2011

the day my world came crashing down

That would be today.

We got the diagnosis of Edwards Syndrome - Trisomy 18, for the baby. It is a devastating piece of news, even though we knew that there were some problems we couldnt help but hope everything would be OK.

It is a genetic disorder common (1 in 1800) in pregnancy, although unlike Down's Syndrome the prognosis is 'not compatible with life'.

As it stands, we dont know if the baby will survive until the birth, or how long after the birth. I can only pray that we get some time to cuddle at least.

6 comments:

Elizabeth said...

Oh Caroline, I'm so, so sorry for you. You are going to need a great deal of strength to get through the next few months, I know. I lost a twin from my first pregnancy but the remaining twin, my son Alun, by a miracle lived, albeit in a distressed state when born. That was 42 years ago. And, you probably know this already, but my second baby, my daughter Juli, almost didn't make it into the world and when she did wasn't expected to live. By another miracle she did, but she paid a high price for her life as she has been disabled with cerebral palsy and profound deafness all her life. It's a bad time but somehow we get through it and we move on - it just takes a while - I mourned for my lost twin and still, to this day, wonder what he/she would have been like. I'm sure both your families will be around to give you emotional support during the trying time ahead and if you feel the need do not hesitate to contact me - I can provide an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. Hugs, Elizabeth xx

Ladkyis said...

Oh my! My ex daughter-in-law had exactly the same thing happen. All I could do then was hug her and hold her so I shall send you cyber hugs of comfort.

Beverly said...

I have just written you down in my prayer journal as I cry for you and your husband. I have a balanced translocation of Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) passed on to me from my mother and her father. I have passed the balanced translocation to both of my son's. I have a sister that has Down Syndrome and I delivered at 29 weeks a daughter with Down Syndrome. I pray that God provides you and your husband some moments to hold your child and express your love. Although Chelsea was stillborn, we were allowed to spend time with her, it meant a great deal. {{{{hugs}}}}

Dawn said...

So sorry to hear your news, I can fully understand the feelings you must have. Thinking of you and hoping that you do get some time to love and hug your baby.
Take Care of yourself. xx

Cath said...

Thinking of you both.


Cathx

Anonymous said...

Oh.. I am so sorry to hear your struggles with your baby. I only just found your blog but this makes my heart break for you.
((hugs)) from Canada