"Yeah, I've heard about such tragic cases. A friend of a friend had a baby with trisomy 13only lived a week," I said. "C-congenital
"Congenital anomalies. Yeah, check out these WHO stats: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/congenital-anomalies But, here's the truth. Many infants with such challenges live years, especially with newer treatments."
"Yeah, I remember when I was a kid, the neighbors put their son with Down Syndrome in an institution," Susan admitted. "And now, Down syndrome adults are getting married, holding down jobs, even acting on TV."
"They have lives, full lives," I agreed. "And what's made the difference for them is not giving up on them, not shutting the door on their possibilities." I paused. "Granted, many infants with anomalies don't survive, but, according to that webpage, many that didn't used to, now do." I shook my head "There have been cultures in the past that have 'thrown away' infants, not only with disabilities, but who weren't perfect. Our nation was a leader in bringing the disabled out of closets and institutions, and helping them be included and valued members of our society. What if parents who learned they'd have a child with Down Syndrome started deciding to abort rather than support their child instead? Raising a child with disabilities can be very challenging."
Susan said, "And expensive."
Jamie sighed. "You're right. This isn't just about abortion, but about disabilities. It's a slippery slope. If babies with congenital anomalies are helped to die, pretty soon it's others who could be considered a 'drain on society'. The ill, the elderly, the depressed, the disabled. Don't get sick. Trust me, hospitals can kill you."
"And, unfortunately, it's also about resources," I added. "I'm scared, gals. There aren't enough resources any more to take care of everyone, to give everyone on Earth the life they deserve. And so, all of us are sliding down that slippery slope; as the energy, the infrastructure, the money, and the food runs out. Our noble intentions may sooner or later be drowned by appalling situational ethics and laws which promote the survival of the few. It's a scary future--and, as we're getting older, we may not be around to see it. Stay as healthy as you can."
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