Are They Killing Love? | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Relationships

Are They Killing Love?

892
Are They Killing Love?
https://az616578.vo.msecnd.net/files/2018/01/25/636524484133785074-908076268_IMG_8335.jpg

The idea of aborting children just because they have Down syndrome is spreading.

Why?

The National Review reports that 85 percent of women in Iceland experience prenatal testing and almost 100 percent abort their child if diagnosed with Down syndrome. Only two children with Down syndrome are born every year in Iceland. In Europe, 92 percent of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted. In the United States it falls to around 67 percent.

According to National Review, a video was banned in France that dealt with children with Down syndrome explaining their happiness. The French government said it would upset mothers who made the decision to abort.

Why isn’t anyone telling expectant mothers how people with Down syndrome will have jobs? Why isn’t anyone telling them that they will enjoy a rich social life? Why isn’t anyone telling them about the love they bring?

My parents had a decision to make when their genetic counselor called.

“Your baby has trisomy 21, what do you want to do?” she said.

My Mom opposed abortion from the beginning but asked questions anyway. She reached out to her to her OB-GYN who explained the abortion process and what to expect. Ultimately, my Mom convinced herself to keep the baby.

I am thankful for my little sister. She sharpens my quality of life. She fills it with sass and laughter, and makes it beautiful just by being in it.


People should not abort children just because they have Down syndrome. If my Mom had aborted solely for that reason, my family would not experience the life-changing impact of my little sister. We are more accepting. We are more empathetic. We are more loving.

To imagine a life without my little sister is a life with less quality. With fewer possibilities. With less love.

Don’t kill love.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

21475
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9046
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

6551
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5646
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments