Congratulations on the birth of your new baby!
If you are welcoming a baby with Down syndrome into your family, you probably have many concerns. For most parents, a diagnosis of Down syndrome comes as quite a shock, and depending on your past exposure to Down syndrome, you will be experiencing a host of different emotions. Your child's medical condition at birth plays a huge role in a parent's experience. Some little ones are very healthy at birth. They eat well and sleep well, and aside from the diagnosis, nothing feels out of the ordinary. Other babies have health issues that may keep them in hospital for long periods of time, causing strain on families who just want to start their lives together at home. There may be surgeries or other procedures that are scary for parents, grandparents, and older siblings, and it creates huge stress watching a newborn go through this. Quite often families don't know many other people who have been through this type of situation-- it is unfamiliar and daunting.
Rest assured, you are not alone. There are many families in Halton who have been in your shoes and will be happy to provide a listening ear, share their wisdom, and offer support. We asked some of our parents what they wish they had known when they first found out their children had Down syndrome. This was how they answered:
In time many of your fears will also dissipate, but for now if we can help in any way, please don't hesitate to contact us. We can't wait to meet you and your beautiful new baby!
Here are a few links you might find helpful: