Moments after Eliza was born, she was taken from Lauren’s chest for a barrage of testing. Finally, when the Midwife returned, she grasped Lauren’s hand and delivered the news. Their new, baby girl has a genetic disorder and further testing was required to assess the severity of this new condition. Then she disappeared without any more information.
Babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of one of their chromosomes, chromosome 21. This extra copy changes how babies develop, both characteristically and developmentally. It is completely, individual in terms of diagnosis and the severity can dramatically differ. Eliza’s further testing ensured that she was healthy and she was reunited with her parents. A short NICU stay, and onto their new world together, as a family of three.
Today, Eliza is a spunky 2 1/2 year old who loves music and is a ball of joy! Hear more about how Lauren is using her experience to educate and spread awareness regarding her family’s story through daily teachable moments and celebrating our unique, diverse, amazing world! Can’t wait to meet baby #2 due next year!!!
