Jessica's Story

Pregnancy with T18

The next four months were extremely difficult. We had no idea the emotions that could be generated by riding the Trisomy Rollercoaster. Doctor appointments became the "dreaded time of the month" We had chosen to find out as much as we could so that we would be prepared.

I searched the internet for as much information as I could find. I joined a message board and email listserv that helped tremendously. Today, I am still a member of the listserv. This is an email based message board. The people on the list have had children or grandchildren that have been affected by a trisomy. It is a wonderful source of information and everyone is very supportive. Through the message board I met someone from my area that had just lost a baby to T18. We have since started our own local support group that now consists of five women. It is amazing how therapeutic it is to talk with someone that knows the emotions.

In February we had another ultrasound done. They told us that she could possibly have Dandy Walker Syndrome, which is a condition where the brain has not fully developed. Also, she could possibly have spinal bifida and a diaphragmatic hernia. All of this was non-conclusive but it seemed her outcome would be pretty grim.

I then developed polyhydramnios, which is an excess of amniotic fluid. This made the end of the pregnancy very uncomfortable. On April 25, I had some of the fluid drained via amniocentesis. At the same time a sample was sent to the lab to check the maturity of her lungs. The doctor was disappointed that they were not more developed, but said that alot could change in the next couple of weeks. I felt so good after having the fluid drained, I figured I could be pregnant forever. I could sleep again and tie my shoes. I just wanted to dance!!!!

Next-the BIG day! Home Photographs more Photos Meet Jessica's Family (2002) Poems Memorial Page Family life 2002-2003 (updated March 2003) Life after Trisomy - 3 years later (September 2005) Please sign our guest book on the home page. Thanks for visiting!