My 1st Born Has Down Syndrome
My Firstborn, My Greatest Teacher and Love
When I became a mother for the first time, I imagined a journey filled with all the typical milestones — the first steps, the first words, the first day of school. What I didn’t imagine was how my world would change in the most unexpected and beautiful way when I learned that my son had Down Syndrome.
I was 5 or 6 months pregnant and I remember when the Ultrsound Tech completed looked perplexed and went immediatly to speak with my doctor. They could tell by the size of Terion’s neck that he may have Down Syndrome,but didnt know for sure. They gave me the option to have the :
Amniocentesis Test — Explained Simply
(Largest needle Ive ever seen in my life outside of the Epidural Needle)
Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic test that checks for certain genetic conditions and birth defects in a developing baby.
During pregnancy, the baby floats in a protective fluid called amniotic fluid inside the uterus. This fluid contains cells from the baby, which carry the baby’s DNA.
In an amniocentesis, a doctor uses a needle to take a sample of that fluid from the mother’s belly. The sample is then tested in a lab.
Why It’s Done:
Doctors may recommend amniocentesis to:
Check for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Trisomy 18, or Trisomy 13
Detect genetic disorders (like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease)
Test for neural tube defects (like spina bifida)
See if the baby’s lungs are mature (later in pregnancy)
Confirm fetal infections or blood type issues
When It’s Done:
Usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Risks:
Amniocentesis is generally safe, but it’s still an invasive test. Possible risks include:
Mild cramping or spotting afterward
A small risk of miscarriage (usually less than 1%)
Infection or fluid leakage (very rare)
Results:
Results typically take 1–2 weeks.
They can tell you with high accuracy if your baby has certain chromosomal or genetic conditions — though not all possible birth defects can be detected.
At first, I’ll be honest — I was vey scared and disappointed.
The unknown can be intimidating, especially when it comes to your child. I had questions, fears, and moments where I just cried, wondering if I was strong enough, prepared enough, or even capable of giving him everything he deserved. What I didn’t realize at the time was that he was sent to teach me strength, not to test it.
YOU MAY ASK YOURSELF ; WHAT IS DOWN SYNDROME?
What Is Down Syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21.
Because of this, it’s also called Trisomy 21 — “tri” meaning three copies instead of the usual two.
That extra chromosome changes how the body and brain develop. It can cause some level of learning differences, distinct physical features, and certain health concerns, but it also brings a wide range of abilities, personalities, and strengths.
What Causes It?
Down syndrome isn’t caused by anything parents did or didn’t do.
It happens by chance when the baby’s cells divide and an extra chromosome is included.
It can occur in any pregnancy, though the chance increases slightly as the mother gets older.
Common Traits
People with Down syndrome often share some physical traits, such as:
Almond-shaped eyes that slant slightly upward
A flatter facial profile
A single deep crease across the palm of the hand
Low muscle tone (especially as babies)
But every person with Down syndrome is unique — with their own personality, talents, and sense of humor.
Development and Life
Children with Down syndrome usually reach milestones at their own pace — they walk, talk, and learn like other children, just on their own timeline.
With support, therapy, good healthcare, and education, most grow up to live active, meaningful, and joyful lives.
You’ll find them thriving in schools, workplaces, art, sports, and advocacy. Many bring an incredible warmth and light to everyone around them — something countless parents describe as a blessing they never saw coming.
Health Considerations
Some may have:
Heart defects (many are correctable with surgery)
Hearing or vision challenges
Thyroid or immune system differences
But regular medical care helps most people with Down syndrome live long, healthy lives — often into their 60s and beyond.
Terion is 23 and I remember the Doctors saying he may not make it past the age of 21 .
NO DOCTOR TOLD ME THAT IT WOULD BE THE BEST LOVE FROM A HUMAN!
My son has shown me what pure love looks like — love that’s not based on expectations or conditions, but on presence and patience. Every smile, every laugh, every milestone he reaches reminds me that progress doesn’t have to be rushed. It happens on its own time, in its own way, and it’s always worth celebrating.
There’s something incredibly special about the way he views the world. He notices joy in places most people overlook. He reminds me to slow down, to appreciate simple things, and to live in gratitude. Through him, I’ve learned that perfection isn’t about fitting into a mold — it’s about embracing who you are, fully and fearlessly.
Yes, there are challenges — appointments, therapies, moments of worry — but they’re overshadowed by the pride I feel when I see how far he’s come. He’s not defined by a diagnosis. He’s defined by his laughter, his spirit, and the way he lights up every room he enters.
Being his mother has made me a better human being. He’s taught me patience, unconditional love, and the kind of faith that can move mountains.
If I could go back to that day when I first learned about his diagnosis, I would whisper to my younger self:
"Breathe. You have no idea how incredible this journey will be. This child will change you in ways you never imagined. He will teach you more about love than the world ever could."
My firstborn may have Down syndrome, but more importantly — he has a purpose, a joy, and a light that shines brighter than anything I’ve ever known.
Would you like me to make it more emotional and poetic, or more storytelling and personal (including specific memories or moments with him)? I can tailor it to sound more like your voice.
