{Unexpected} is a collection of stories that include real-life accounts from families who have received a diagnosis of Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Families from around the world share what it was like for them to receive a prenatal, birth, or uniquely timed diagnosis, and those families with a potential but unconfirmed diagnosis share their experiences as well. Readers will follow along as the contributors describe the many facets of their diagnosis experience and the range of emotions that came with it.
{Please visit www.missiont21.com for our stories and for additional support}
The journey of this project began a year ago when Owen was just a few months old. Upon meeting hundreds of mothers and families from around the world in the Down syndrome community, several things became clear:
There were far more commonalities than differences in our experiences
Having each other for support was critical in our path to acceptance
If we did not have each other and noticed all the common threads of our receiving a new diagnosis for Down syndrome, we would have struggled.
My dear friend from across the pond, Joelle, and I came upon an idea to DO SOMETHING. We weren't quite sure what it was, but we felt a strong desire to share our experiences in order to help families not feel alone as they began a journey we were now on the other side of. We wanted to be real. We wanted to share advice, information and feeling. We wanted others to see the roller coaster that often accompanies this diagnosis. No, it is not all rainbows and unicorns, but in the end there is an awesome new member of your family that you would not trade for anything. And, although it takes time, you will get there.
We sincerely hope in sharing our stories that you, too, will find your own path to acceptance as you welcome your child with a little something extra.
Jen is a former teacher and mother of four. Owen, the youngest, has Down syndrome. Joelle is also a teacher and mother of three. Josee Hope has Trisomy 21 and is her youngest, too.
