[Sign my Dreambook
Previous Page | Next Page ]
[ Back to A Trisomy 18 Journey - Abigail Grace Wilsford ]
| Name: | Laura |
| E-mail address: | Laura.Brooks@PTCAlliance.com |
| City, State, Country: | Alliance, OH |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Mindy,
Thank you so much for sharing your website. I have just read The Journey . . . WOW. The circumstances were different in our case, the the end result was the same . . . tragedy. Your little Abigail was absolutely beautiful. I will be sure to share this website with my daughter, whom I'm sure will find it comforting. Thanks again for being a good "friend". Love, Laura |
| Name: | Mary Littrell |
| E-mail address: | mclittrells@embarqmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Ocala, FL USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I lost my first son Travis to Trisomy 18 in November 1989. He was born on November 7th 1989 and we were able to spend 3 precious weeks with him before he passed. Not a day goes by that I don't think about him and miss him immensely. Every November 7th is still a struggle even though I know he is in God's arms until the day we can be together again. I was blessed to have 4 more children after Travis passed and I have shown them all the pictures that I have of Travis and explained to them what he had and where he is now. I wish I would have found this website a long time ago but I am glad I have found it now. Your Abigail is beautiful. |
| Name: | hillary wald |
| E-mail address: | hillarywald@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | aliso viejo, ca |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful story. I was having a tough day with my 5 month old (always fussy) and 2 year old son...your story really put things in perspective. I am so sorry for your loss of your gorgeous daughter, what a wonderful way you dealt with your loss. I only hope I could be as strong as you and your family. Again, so sorry for your loss of your angel, I am glad she is with God now. I was just bawling reading your story. |
| Name: | maggie mortimer |
| E-mail address: | mortnmaggie@live.com |
| City, State, Country: | albany, mo usa |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | thank you for your info about this syndrome, i just found out may new great grandbaby has this and i was trying to find out what it was & what caused it. she is just 2 days old, we hope she makes it , pleas pray for maria. thanks great grandma maggie |
| Name: | Marissa T |
| E-mail address: | miss.marissa21@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | pittsburgh PA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | You are a very stong individual......ur page has brought me a sense of releif! she was beautiful!!! thank you for taking your time to make the site. i am 23 weeks pregnant with a baby girl w trisomy 18. she has everything that you could have with the disorder inside and out.....im dealing with it very well. you have a beautiful family, i too have a son and a daughter, it makes it alittle easier to cope with. they need me to b strong, as strong as you hopefully! YOUR WEBSITE IS WONDERFUL. |
| Name: | aisha |
| E-mail address: | booty165@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | lancaster, ca |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | My prayers are always with you and your family.. I too have lost a child due to trisomy 18.. My baby girl Heaven was born early and lived for 6 weeks. I miss her dearly. Heaven was born 10-28-2008 and went home to Jesus 12-10-2008.. She was a blessing to all the came to know her.. God bless you. |
| Name: | marlana |
| E-mail address: | marlana79@msn.com |
| City, State, Country: | Oregon |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My sister has just been told that her baby that she is 17 weeks pregnant with has trisonomy 18. As her sister I am trying my hardest to be strong for her, I just linked her this site and I'm hoping it will help her feel less isolated. Thanks:) |
| Name: | Meredith Kuny |
| E-mail address: | merth2erth@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Fuquay Varina, NC |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your experiences. My best friend has gotten a prenatal diagnosis of Trisomy 18 this week. I live several hundred miles from her, so it's difficult to know what to do to best help. We are Christians as well, and I know that my friend is going to have some major and difficult decisions to make in the coming weeks and days -- thank you again for sharing your perspective.
God bless! |
| Name: | Rachel |
| E-mail address: | RachelWinsor@att.net |
| City, State, Country: | Fullerton, California |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I signed Abigail's book in July of 2008 after losing my second daughter Jessa to Trisomy 18. She was born June 11,2008 and we had six days with her before she passed on the 17th. We miss her terribly!!!!!
On August 14th of this year we welcomed our third lovely daughter into this world. Most importantly we welcomed her into the world healthy! I cannot tell you the extreme high we are on after she was born. It was not easy to try again but my husband and I are so glad we did. It was terrifying to be pregnant again we felt like we were always waiting for the ball to drop what would they tell us but what they did tell us was she is healthy! Thank God!!!!! If you are considering trying again it will not be easy but it will be worth it. It will not make loosing your baby any better nothing can change that but it will help you learn to live with the lose a little easier. It will make you grateful for all of the normal craziness of having a new baby! Trisomy 18 made me realize I need to make every moment count I don't know how many I will get. I pray to God for a lot of ordinary regular moments with my family. God Bless! |
| Name: | Michelle |
| E-mail address: | michelleeramo@ymail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Halifax, Mass. USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for writing about your journey. We were diagnosed 2 months ago with T-18. I am 5 months along right now, and have become my son's biggest cheerleader also. I found myself relating to the exact same feelings of which you had wrote about from the beginning, which helps so much because we are not alone.
We have put our son in God's hands, he already is a little miracle because we were told we would never have any more children. We have 2 girls now, ages 21 and 15. It's been quite a while since I've been able to experience pregnancy and even though my little man has an abnormality, I am enjoying each and every day he is with me. We go for ultrasounds every 2 weeks, which I cherish just as much as if I was bringing him to the doctors as a healthy little boy. That is my time to share and enjoy his life while he is still with me. And on occasion the technicians will do a quick time 3d movie for us to watch. Last week he was playing with the umbilical cord moving it all around. Absolutely precious. I have learnt more from your story and will begin putting together a birth plan. But for now, I look forward to the day and moments I will have to see, hold, love and cherish my new little boy. Thank you for your support, and your story. You and your family are wonderful. |
| Name: | JM |
| City, State, Country: | Honolulu, HI, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Mahalo for sharing your story. My sister just gave me the news of baby's test results all pointing to Trisomy 18.
God Bless you. |
| Name: | KT |
| E-mail address: | hobnob18@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | Milton, WA USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My sister is waiting for the results of an amnio after soft markers and her quad screem showed a high probability of Trisomy 18. Your story and many others on this site have given me hope that we may have an oportunity to meet her precious baby, even if its just long enough to say goodbye. Thank you for sharing your heartwrenching story.
KT |
| Name: | becky colliass |
| E-mail address: | beckycolliass@hotmail.co.uk |
| City, State, Country: | united kingdom |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | thank you for your trisomy18 journey it has really heped me our little boy is with abigail in heaven he was stillborn 30th july 2008 |
| Name: | Ruth Alexander |
| E-mail address: | ruthpetitt@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Kenton,Ohio.USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Our newest granddaughter Jade Elizabeth was born on September 3rd this year and has been diagnosed with this disorder and we wanted to find out more about it and families who have come to know of this.your stories and pictures do help us and i know it will also help out my daughter in law and her other children. |
| Name: | Shawna |
| E-mail address: | sethelwt@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://sethelwt.blogspot.com/ |
| City, State, Country: | Preston, ID USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Hi Abigail
I have a daughter with trisomy 18 (mosaic) she is 11 years old. She is just beautiful and we love her alot. I just wanted to say hi and wish you well! Shawna |
| Name: | Sandra McCavour |
| E-mail address: | csmcc@rogers.com |
| City, State, Country: | Saint John, NB, Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing your story...I was reading just to know more about Trisomy 18. I just want to be informed so that I can be supportive to a friend with this possible diagnosis...God Bless the Children.. Thank you for sharing Abigail with all those who come across this site.. |
| Name: | Desiree |
| E-mail address: | desireedl79@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Tennessee |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Infant Loss Site |
| Comments: | I was directed to your site through the CDO memorial page. Your daughter was very beautiful and I love all the pictures you were able to take of her, I know she was truly a gift from God. I'm sure you cherished every minute you had with her. I think its awesome that you have set up this web site to tell her story and help others with the same condition as her.
Our little Olivia passed away 3 weeks ago and we miss her terribly. She had a deletion in her 8th chromosome (8p23.1) which caused several problems with her heart. We were told that I would probably have a miscarriage or that if she was born that she probably wouldn't be breathing. Well I had her at 35 weeks and she was just crying her head off. Praise God! We were blessed with 14 wonderful weeks with her. In her short lifetime she strengthen my faith as well as others, she brought my mother to Christ and changed our lives forever. Although I miss her I know that she is in a better place. I know she is in Heaven, perhaps her and Abigail are playing together. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I don't know if you've read this story it was sent to me on Olivia's caring bridge site. Hope you enjoy. "The Brave Little Soul" Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. She especially enjoyed the love she saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however the little soul was sad, for on this day she saw suffering in the world. She approached God and sadly asked, "Why do bad things happen; why is there suffering in the world?" God paused for a moment and replied, "Little Soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in people's hearts." The little soul was confused. "What do you mean," she asked. "God replied, "Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone." The little soul began to understand and listened attentively as God continued, "The suffering soul unlocks the love in people's hearts much like the sun and the rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately most people keep it locked up and hardly share it with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this - it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer - to unlock this love - to create this miracle - for the good of all humanity." Just then the little soul got a wonderful idea and could hardly contain herself. With her wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, "I am brave; let me go!! I would love to go into the world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people's hearts! I want to create that miracle!!" God smiled and said, "You are a brave soul I know, and thus I will grant your request. But even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask for this and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help create your miracle; however they will also share in your suffering. Two of these souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you." God and the brave little soul shared a smile, and then embraced. In parting, God said, "Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear the pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed." Thus at that moment the brave little soul was born into the world, and through her suffering and God's strength, she unlocked the goodness and love in people's hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love. Priorities became properly aligned. People gave from their hearts. Those that were always too busy found time. Many began new spiritual journeys - some regained lost faith - many came back to God. Parents hugged their children tighter. Friends and family grew closer. Old friends got together and new friendships were made. Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. Everyone prayed. Peace and love reigned. Lives changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased ...... (By John Alessi) |
| Name: | Cindy Conner |
| E-mail address: | cconner@gbchfm.org |
| City, State, Country: | Palmetto, GA USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I just found out today that my baby boy at 20 weeks has Trisomy 18 and I am falling apart. I cannot keep from crying. My husband and I have chosen to carry Christopher Jacob full-term. Thank you for your story. I have a 3 year old son and a 5 year old daughter and I did originally think that I was going to terminate the pregnany because of how it will affect my other children but after reading your story I have chosen the alternative. I do not know how I am going to do this but I know that if God got you through it, He will get me through it as well. Thank you again and God Bless You! |
| Name: | pruszynska joanna |
| E-mail address: | j.pruszynska@headlines.pl |
| City, State, Country: | Warsaw, Poland |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | My husband's best friend just received diagnosis. Him and his wife are religious. I really did it not know how to react. I have four healthy children and he is a godfather to one of them. Your site presented the "journey" in very different perspective, especially from point of view of religious person. The resource page gave me directions what to do or not and explained way. I was unable to talk to him on a phone, so I called his mother whom I like. I just let her speak and cry with her. Later I've sent a text message to them about how sorry I am and that I kiss them and their sweet daughter. They response was immediate. I wouldn't know how I should behave without you. Obviously Abigail now helps others. God bless you. |
| Name: | Kari and David |
| E-mail address: | gabbychick@bellsouth.net |
| City, State, Country: | USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My daughter just found out she is carrying a child with Cromosone 18, I have ran the gammit of emotions today, i can only imagine her and her husband are too. I look so forward to loving this baby. But, my question is willI have HIM long enough to shower him with my love. This baby has made a differernce in my life and he is not even here yet, I feel so BLESSED, just knowing he is inside my daughter growing, and he is hearing and feeling the words, loving words coming his way. I want this baby to know that this grandma and grandpa LOVE him so very much and he is a BLESSING to our lives. I want to thank you for your sharing your story, it does not make what lies before us feel so grim, but can be a beautiful expeirence for all invovled. God Bless You and Your Family |
| Name: | carrie chenoweth |
| E-mail address: | angeleyes72@live.com |
| City, State, Country: | milwaukie, or |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | MY NAME IS CARRIE AND I AM 24 WEEKS ALONG IN MY PREGNANCY. I WAS JUST TOLD ON FRIDAY THAT MY BABY HAS DEFECTS THAT POINT IN THE DIRECTION OF TRISOMY 18. I HAD THE AMNEO AND AM AWAITING THE RESULTS ON TUESDAY. I TOO AM EXPECTING A BABY GIRL...WHICH WE HAVE NAMED MADISON. I WAS TOLD NOT TO LOOK ANYTHING UP UNTIL I GOT THE FINAL POSITIVE WORD THAT IT IS TRISOMY 18, BUT BEING WHO I AM...I LOOKED ANYWAY. I WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT MY PERSPECTIVE OF WHAT IS GOING ON HAS CHANGED SINCE I READ EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENED WITH ABIGAIL AND THAT THE DECISION I WILL BE FACED WITH IN THE NEXT WEEK HAS BEEN MADE EASIER. MY THOUGHTS BE WITH YOU. |
| Name: | lucy |
| E-mail address: | lucy.calton@yahoo.co.uk |
| City, State, Country: | united kingdom |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | hi im lucy, i had a baby boy called joshua 7 years ago on the 11th july 2002, i'm glad i found this site it's really helped me, cause the doctor who told me and my husband about trisomy 18 didnt really explain to us. |
| Name: | CHERRL BOSH |
| E-mail address: | cherrlbosh2004@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | TAHLEQUAH, OKLA. USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I AM NOW 30 WEEKS PREG WITH A BABY BOY1 YAY HUH? WELL I WAS 12 WEEKS PREG WHEN MY DR DONE SOME GENETIC TESTINGS WICH CAME BACK HIGH RISK FOR SOMETHING OR SEVERAL SOMETHINGS. I WASNT TO WORRIED ABOUT IT BUT FOR SOME REASON MY DR WAS. HE SENT ME OVER TO A SPECIALIST TO DO A LEVEL 2 ULTRASOUND THEY KEPT SAYING WE CANT SEE ANYTHING ITS TO CLOUDY AND BY THIS TIME I WAS ONLY 18 WEEKS, SO I THOUGHT IT WAS ONLY CAUSE I WASNT THAT FAR ALONG YET. SO I STILL WASNT THAT WORRIED. THEY HAD ME COME BACK AT 20 WEEKS STILL NOTHING WAS ABLE TO BE SEEN VERY WELL. SO THE REFERD ME TO TAKE A AMNIO TEST BUT GBY THE TI,E THEY SCHEDULED IT I WAS ALREADY 29 WEEKS THEY SAID MY WINDOW FOR THE TEST WAS CLOSED AND IT WOULD BE ACCURET IF I TOOK IT ANYWAY, I WAS FURIOUS. I ASK MY DR AT THIS LAST APPOINTMENT WHAT EXCACTLY DID MY BABY AND I TEST HIGH FOR HE SAID TRI 18 I HAD NO CLUE AS TO WHAT THIS WAS TIL I READ YOUR SITE, AND OMG I AM SO SCARED. I HAVE HAD SO MANY LOSSES 11 TO BE EXACT I DONT WANT TO LOSE ANOTHER BABY, WHAT CAN I DO? THE DR TELLS ME I HAVE TO WAIT TILL THE BABY IS BORN TO DO ANYTHING. BASICLLY THERE IS NOTHING I CAN DO. I AM SO SCARED AND WORRIED, I MEAN I KNEW FROM THE BEGINNING THAT THIS PREG WASNT NORMAL BUT TO THINK IN AS LESS AS MINS OR EVEN LATEST AS DAYS I AM GOING TO LOSE YET ANOTHER BABY, HOW? WHY?
HOWEVER, I DO WANT TO TAKE THIS OPPIRTUNITY TO TELL YOU FOLKS. GOD BLESS YOU, AND HE IS TAKING GREAT CARE OF YOUR BABY ABBY TILL YOU ARE READY TO BE JOINED AGAIN IN HEAVEN. YOU ARE A STRONG FAMILY I AM VERY THANKFUL I GOT TO READ AND SEE EYES AND HANDS ON WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE. IT IS HARD I KNOW LIKE IVE SAID ABOVE I HAVE HAD 11 LOSSES IN 10 YRS ALL UNEXPLAINED.I AM CRYING TO BAD TO TYPE. SO I WILL END THIS SIGN IN WILL I LOVE YOU ALL IN THE LORD AND I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. LOVE IN THE LORD ALWAYS THE BOSH FAMILY |
| Name: | Mel |
| E-mail address: | xcheekychickenx@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Essex, UK |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Hi,
I was passed a link to your page by a friend and am so glad I came here, and begun to read a little. I am currently 15 weeks pregnant, and after a CVS have been told that I am very likely to be carrying a Trisomy 18 baby, my tests cme back inconclusive as although they picked up the Trisomy 18 I also have a mosaicism, so have to wait another few days to get a positive result, personally I have felt something was wrong for the last few weeks and had steeled myself for the result. Mt partner and I have also decided to continue the pregnancy, and we are hoping to get to term with our little miracle as he/she has taken us five years to conceive, there was no other option for us from the start :) Thank you for putting together such a wealth of information and stories, so hard to find on this syndrome, and for the beautiful pictures of your little Angel. I will most definitely come back again to give you news of our bump, and wish you all the best. Mel xx |
| Name: | Jae |
| E-mail address: | jaemichael95@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Australia |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am not sure where to go for advice on this difficult topic.... but through your pain and loss you have appeared to gained such knowledge and understanding on how to help and I hope you will be able to help me.
My sister-in-law and I are due one day apart (mid August). Today however, she has found out her baby has T18! Devastating news! I am not sure what her decision will be as they are meeting with the Genetist tomorrow - however I hope they let God decide.... My question is, how am I suppose to support her when I am having a healthy pregnancy and she is not? I feel guilty about having a healthy baby and dont want to "rub it in her face" sort of thing. I dont want to make things more painful for her by showing up with my pregnant belly, but i dont want to ignore the situation as that will not help either - we were too close for that. What about in the long term as well when my baby is born? I imagine it will be very painful for her to see a newborn. Any advise would be useful. This has been difficult to describe accurately - it sounds very selfish like I am only thinking of myself, but I want advice so I can make it less painful for her. Thanking you in advance. |
| Name: | Glenn |
| Homepage URL: | http://KerenOwens.com |
| City, State, Country: | Northern Ireland |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | After losing wee Keren to T18 almost exactly 3 years ago, the Lord has blessed our family with beautiful twin boys!
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above" http://kerenowens.com/2009/06/17/first-photos-of-the-twins/ |
| Name: | Michelle |
| E-mail address: | hvnc_mwhite@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | copan, oklahoma, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My daughter is 16 and 5 months pregnant she went for an ultrasound to determine the sex of the baby and found out it is a girl but the doctor also told her that he thinks there might be cysts on the babies spine and that it is a possiblity that the baby has trisomy 18. she is going for further tests and I am hoping beyond hope that its not true. Thank you for this website its very helpful. And may God Bless You and your sweet angel. |
| Name: | Jess Munoz |
| E-mail address: | jessbailey.martinez@gmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | New York |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | This is a wonderful story of Abigail's life. I have experience with downs syndrome children as my mother is the principal of an assessment center for 2-11 year olds with special needs - I was heart broken when my favorite downs syndrome child James died when he was about 7 from a heart defect. He was so full of life and I'd spent quite a bit of time with him volunteering there.
I came across your site because I am nine weeks pregnant right now and was surfing the internet about all the different tests I may take , as I'll be making my first doctors appointment soon. What a sweet message the people below me left by the way, it's nice to know there's so many understanding people out there sharing difficult experiences to help and educate others. I love the way you dressed Abigail up for photos immediately, that's exactly what I would have done too! She looked so cute! It was great the kids got to meet and fully acknowledge her as their little sister. Thanks for your story - it looks like you have a lovely family xxxx |
| Name: | IAN & MARION |
| E-mail address: | ianon16@tiscali.co.uk |
| Homepage URL: | http://cheryl.hamilton.muchloved.com |
| City, State, Country: | SCOTLAND |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Your story is very deeply touching, and it is a testament to the love you had and gave to this precious child. We read your story whilst trying to find a reason for our situation at the loss of our only daughter aged 34 she may have been a grown woman but oh such a precious young girl to us. We try so hard to find an answer to Cheryl,s sudden death from heart attack but God decided to take her from us and we have to live the lie to friends of "were doing ok" as mostly this is the answer they expect from us.We now know of your precious girl and will say a prayer for her as we always do for our own "wee lass" |
| Name: | Gale & Brend Reedy |
| E-mail address: | g-man-2121@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | union,Mo. |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | Our gandson"Noel Jacob Durbin" was born April 4th 2009 with T-18. It was devisatig for the whole family! He passed May,18th 2009. He was a beautiful baby. We will miss him very much. Son w hope to have a website set up for him and his Mom & Dad, plus his siblings. They have alot of medical bills that the can't pay from Noel's birth and the long stay in the N-icu. We pray for all the family's tat ever have this tradegy happen to them. Stay strong! |
| Name: | Sarah |
| E-mail address: | anderzoid@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | willowbrook USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for your detail on your personal story and those of friends and Job. These have helped me in realizing that I must be certain to rally behind my sister and friends who have had poor prenatal diagnosis. I have felt helpless in offering my support but now feel helpful. Thank you for the insight on what we can do to take care of the beautiful pregnant women in our lives. Abigail you really have helped so many through your short life, what an inspiration! |
| Name: | Jennifer |
| City, State, Country: | West Virginia, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | When I was pregnant with my last baby, I was told my baby was at risk for trisomy 18. It was to late in the pregnancy to do anything about it if he did have it and I don't think I could have terminated the pregnancy if I had known but we ended up not getting the amnio done. I was lucky and my baby turned out to be fine but I was worried for my whole pregnancy. My mother-in-law knows someone who had a trisomy 18 baby who lived to almost a year old and she would tell me all the stories of that little girl. I am righting a paper on Edwards syndrome for my anatomy class and I think your site is wonderful not only for it's wealth of information but also for your story. |
| Name: | Janet |
| City, State, Country: | Gloucester,England |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I have just been told that a recent blood test has come back showing possible Trisomy 18, i have never heard of this before today, i am due to go for further screening in 4 days, i can't stop crying and wondering what the out come will be, i found your story quite emotional and comforting i am a single parent i already have a healthy 20mth old son. i leave everthing in Gods hands. thankyou and your family for sharing your story of your beautiful daughter Abigail |
| Name: | Lisa Rogers |
| E-mail address: | lrogers@specialtyfi.com |
| City, State, Country: | Reno, Nevada |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your story. My brother and sister in law found out in February that their baby has T18. I have found myself coming back to your story often since then. Their baby is scheduled to be born tomorrow. You have enlightened me as to what they are and will be experiencing. |
| Name: | Sophia Douglas |
| E-mail address: | none |
| City, State, Country: | Arizona |
| How did you find this site?: | Another guestbook |
| Comments: | I am 12 years old.3 months into the pregnancy my younger sister was diagnosed with T18.We were told that she wouldn't live long,yet my parents decided not to terminate the pregnancy for two reasons, they thought it wouldn't be right, and after all, there still might be hope for her.My mother and father traveled to Pheonix to visit a more expierienced doctor.After a series of tests,she told them that ellie did not show any signs of T18. others are not as fortunate as we were. I am so sorry for your loss, and happy that God gave Abigail time to be loved and cared for those five days. As I write, my sister Ellie is playing with a winnie the pooh toy. It is truly a miracle that she is still with us, and there isn't a day that goes by that I thank god for my Ellie. |
| Name: | Sophia Douglas |
| E-mail address: | none |
| City, State, Country: | Arizona |
| How did you find this site?: | Another guestbook |
| Comments: | I am 12 years old.3 months into the pregnancy my younger sister was diagnosed with T18.We were told that she wouldn't live long,yet my parents decided not to terminate the pregnancy for two reasons, they thought it wouldn't be right, and after all, there still might be hope for her.My mother and father traveled to Pheonix to visit a more expierienced doctor.After a series of tests,she told them that ellie did not show any signs of T18. others are not as fortunate as we were. I am so sorry for your loss, and happy that God gave Abigail time to be loved and cared for those five days. As I write, my sister Ellie is playing with a winnie the pooh toy. It is truly a miracle that she is still with us, and there isn't a day that goes by that I thank god for my Ellie. |
| Name: | leticia |
| E-mail address: | letiziahed@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Saint johns;Az |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Thank you! Thank you again,I visited your site when my baby was diagnosed at risk for T18 ,it helped me a lot when I was going trough all the tests ,stress,growing and waiting,Iwas confused,angry,scared and very very sad,your story with Abigail Grace gave me strenght,knowledge,and somehow I found myself more at peace,apreciated the support of my husband and my mom,specially and the rest of my family,because I didn't share any of these with any of my friends,is not like I was ashamed or anything is just that is so painful tothink or talk about that,that most of the times you just keep it to the family,well...that's what I did and most people do,but not Abigaeil Grace's family,that is what makes a difference and the decision that you made by sharing something so private ,important and special makes you a very brave and wise family,I feel the need to let you know that I have a space on my heart for your beatiful baby Aby ,she is on my mind,and the few days that she visited from heaven will always be remembered .she made a difference in my life and in others God bless your family I hope you feel better every day because that means you are 1 day closer to see her again!my baby was born on May 2008 .a healthy 9'11'' girl I was very lucky that she didn't have T18 but I feel for all the beatiful babies that have it.she is going to be 1 year old on May 13,whatever happens have faith and keep in mind that miracles happen! |
| Name: | Glenda robson |
| E-mail address: | d.g.robson@sasktel.net |
| City, State, Country: | Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | I am sorry for your loss, my family found out that one of my nieces had a beautiful little girl who was diagnosed with Tri-18, and it was heart breaking to find this out, I have not seen her but I am sure she will always be our little sweet angel sent from Heaven. |
| Name: | Kathy Shields |
| E-mail address: | kcsshields@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Indianapolis, IN |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | We found out today that my daughter's little girl may have Trisomy 18. My daughter's screening came back negative. I am just so damn mad. I have two daughter's. The oldest with two children already, abused every illicit drug in the book, and managed to give birth to two healthy children. My daughter who recieved this crushing news today, had one child, married, does not abuse anything. Her older sister, lost custody of her first child, and abuses the one she still has. Erika and Jon are just such a beautiful set of parents, I am so proud of them. My heart is in a million pieces. I can not protect my precious grand baby who is here. Now my baby girl who would do nothing but cherish her little girl will lose her. I hate God right now! I am so sorry to say that.
Kathy |
| Name: | Nicole |
| E-mail address: | schreibn@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | MN |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | I am so sorry for your loss. My husband and I lost our son,Liam due to T18, March 19, 2009.
After two normal screens and ultrasounds, my husband and I were devastated to find out only minutes before I was scheduled to have a c-section at 37 weeks that our son, Liam, had T18. Fortunately, I did not have go through a c-section, and we were able to bring our son into this world in the most peaceful way possible. Even though he had already passed, my husband and I, along with our families, were there to love him, hold him, and see how perfect he was. The love we have for our son transcends anything of this earth, and we know that we will one day meet our sweet little guy again- |
| Name: | Dusty |
| E-mail address: | dw3076@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Colorado |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Wow,what a beautiful but heartbreaking story. My pastor and his wife just lost a baby to trisomy 18. I wanted to know more and found myself at this website. Your sweet Abigail is definately at the feet of Jesus.
I looked at your website with tears in my eyes because my husband and I lost a baby 11 years ago. He was born with major heart defects that could not be fixed. We enjoyed him for almost 4 months before we made the hardest decision we have ever had to make and pull life support from him. I wished that there was a website we could go to to look at others stories of parents going through the death of a child and to know that we was not alone. We was very young when we lost baby Joshuah Daevid and felt all alone. We now have a very beautiful and healthy 9 year old son.He is an absolute miracle from God.The Lord turned our tragedy into something wonderful. Lord bless you and love in Jesus name |
| Name: | Barbara McCoy |
| E-mail address: | cgmccoy@sbcglobal.net |
| City, State, Country: | Ft.Worth, Tx |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Your story was brought to me by Divine intervention this a.m.Our son and daughter-in-law go to Nashville,TN tomorrow to find out if indeed their expected one has T18. I had never heard of Edwards Syndrome until last night when our son called us saying the blood work previously done had come back in question. The fact that you are believers has encouraged me and I have printed off everything you have written about as well as Abigail's pics. God Bless you and could I ask for prayer for our son and daughter-in-law? Our son will be deployed (fourth time)on Easter Sunday. This leaves our daughter-in-law in a great deal of distress although there is family support. |
| Name: | Heather Handley |
| E-mail address: | heather_jlh@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Calgary, AB Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am deeply sorry for your loss of Abigail. I just lost my first son only 3 days ago to full T18. I only made it 20 weeks into my pregnancy when i had Liam at 6am stillborn. It is such a tragic thing how one chromosone can change a life in such a dramatic way. I will always remember when I held him how perfect his little feet were, and how beautiful his smile was. I know in my heart that he was at peace. Every year I will celebrate his birthday in some way, and April 4th will never be the same to me. I have learned so much in the last few weeks, experinced so many emotions and I know there is still more to this journey. I hope all the best for your family. Strenth, hope and love is what is getting me through. Thank you for listening. |
| Name: | Lora cox |
| E-mail address: | Keebler35@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Somerset oh us |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My sis is 4 mos preg. Her blood work came back pos. For trisomy18 we have test in 2 weeks 2 know 4 sure |
| Name: | SHARON |
| E-mail address: | sdort@emcoltd.com |
| City, State, Country: | NOVA SCOTIA,CANADA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | WE'RE WAITING ON NEWS , WHICH IS TO COME IN A WEEK,ON OUR NIECE. THE DOCTORS BELIEVE HER BABY HAS T18.SHE IS IN HER 1ST TRIMESTER. WE ARE ALL CONCERNED FOR HER WELL BEING AND THE BABY.GOD BLESS NINA. |
| Name: | Mare Harvey |
| E-mail address: | mareharvey@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Delmar, Md USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Hi,
I lost my daughter Oct 10,2003 to full T18. It was my first pregnancy after over a year of trying and being told we could never get pregnant!! We found out at 20 weeks, I wanted this baby so I continued my pregnancy and at 34+ weeks I delivered my beautiful Caitlyn. She was stillborn which I had kind of anticipated due to the defects she had. It was a very difficult time but if it hadn't been for your site I don't know what I would have done. It was with your help that I was able to take care of my little girl the way that I wanted. I had a "Life" plan done and made sure everyone was aware of my desires for the delivery and memorial of my baby. It was the most beautiful delivery. Bittersweet, she was held by every family member and loved. I thank you for having put this website up when you did. You were all I had to get through the most difficult time in my life. You gave me hope for the future! You and Abigail will always be remembered by me!! God Bless you!! I now have two heatlhy boys ages 3 and 20mos, so the doctor was soooo wrong!! They know their sister and we have celebrated her birthday with them every year!! Thank you again for sharing your Abigail with the world! Mare |
| Name: | Beth Abbott |
| City, State, Country: | Wilmer, AL |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My dear little sister (26) has just found out that her second child that she and her husband prayed for so long, is a Trisomy 18 baby. Ava Synclaire showed complications during her 20 week ultrasound. She has a diphramatic hernea ( a hole in her diaphragm and her intestines have pushed up into her chest). They performed an amnio and the results came back today that she has trisomy 18. My heart aches for my sweet sister and her husband and little girl. Your story is so bittersweet....I will be sure to pass it along to my sister. Thank you so much for glorifying God in your trial. |
| Name: | Jolie Adams |
| E-mail address: | jolie_adams@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Minnetrista, MN 55364 |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing your touching story. We are awaiting confirmation from amniocentesis, but our ultrasound and 1st trimester screening indicate Trisomy 18 for our daughter.
I will continue to refer to your website for the many resources you provide and for that I am grateful. May peace be with you and your family. Sincerely, Jolie Adams Mother of Bella 13 months, health and happy and her twin brother Braeden who went to be with Jesus the day after his birth, January 31, 2008 |
| Name: | karan franks |
| E-mail address: | franks1@aapt.net.au |
| City, State, Country: | australia |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | may god bless you all,i have lost my 7 grandchildren whome i adore not through death but through a family dispute ,your story has inspired me,i looked up this sight because i have heard of someone carring a child with edwards syd ,take care and best wishes karan |
| Name: | remeka stacy |
| E-mail address: | mrsstacy06@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | atlanta,ga. |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | i was touched by your story and very thankful that you shared it. my brother and his fiancee had a beautiful babygirl a week ago whom we just found out has trisomy 18. triniti is both a blessing and inspiration because she has already beat the odds twice by making it this far.we continue to educate ourselves on this condition and stay prayerful that she will continue to fight and survive. we know that god does not make mistakes so we have put this in his hands.(Triniti Jamaia Eford Feb.20,2009) |
| Name: | glenda bowbanks |
| E-mail address: | glendabowbanks@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://windowtothewomb.co.uk |
| City, State, Country: | Nottingham, uk |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Infant Loss Site |
| Comments: | Ther is no footprint 2 small that it cant leave its imprint on this world.
God bless you and keep you strong. |
| Name: | krista |
| E-mail address: | sexy_eyes_4_kb@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | ridgeland, s.c. U.S.A |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | 9 years ago i lost my only son to t-18.I truely understand how you feel and what you and your family went through.Its very hard caring a child knowing what the out come is going to be.I was 28 when i got pregnant with my third child,you might aswell ripped my heart out of my chest when they gave me the results..My prayers are with you and your family...god bless you all... |
| Name: | Christen |
| City, State, Country: | Westerville, Ohio |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I found your site while searching how to support a grieving friend. Your page is exactly what I was looking for.
I'm so sorry for your loss and so amazed to see how you thank God even for the short time you had with your beautiful babe. God is good, even when life is not. Blessings! |
| Name: | Amanda Shewchuk |
| E-mail address: | n.a.l.forever6@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Name: | Amber Reynolds |
| E-mail address: | amberreynoldsmonaghan@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Austin,Tx,Travis |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I have a special needs child that for along time we weren't sure if she would make it to her birth much less any further then that (shes almost 3 and in the clear now) and my bestfriend was by my side through it all, now shes pregnant and they give her baby girl a less then 1 in 10 chance of T-18.My heart is breaking for her but I want and need to be strong for her,I'm trying so hard but the tears keep coming.Thank you for your story!It gave me some new insight on how I can better support my friend who was so good at supporting me in my time of need! Abigail is a beautiful little angel! |
| Name: | Amber Reynolds |
| E-mail address: | amberreynoldsmonaghan@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Austin,Tx,Travis |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I have a special needs child that for along time we weren't sure if she would make it to her birth much less any further then that (shes almost 3 and in the clear now) and my bestfriend was by my side through it all, now shes pregnant and they give her baby girl a less then 1 in 10 chance of T-18.My heart is breaking for her but I want and need to be strong for her,I'm trying so hard but the tears keep coming.Thank you for your story!It gave me some new insight on how I can better support my friend who was so good at supporting me in my time of need! |
| Name: | Evie Shewchuk |
| E-mail address: | evielenore@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Edmonton, Alberta. Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | Hello....I have not read your entire story yet.....but today my unborn grandson tested positive for trisomy 18. He has an older sister 16months healthy.....my daughter only 18, is devestated. She and the father have made a loving choice to continue the journey and hope to bring him into the world, even if for a short time......we are devestated....Abigail is beautiful!!
Evie |
| Name: | Betsy |
| E-mail address: | lizzybethj@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | coeur d' alene, id |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am trying to decide whether to have the test screening for Trisomy 18 done or not. I am a believer in God and in His awesome power and wisdom. I am so inspired by your sweet Abigail's story. Thanks for sharing it with us. What a wonderful family you are.
God Bless. |
| Name: | Samantha Price |
| E-mail address: | hisbabyy@ymail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Lonoke, Arkansas, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | this is really sad about the little girl. I hope yall have the best of luck. |
| Name: | Stephanie DesOrmeaux |
| E-mail address: | escot02@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | San Antonio, Texas |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing this experience. This website is a blessing. We found out two days ago that my niece en utero has multiple health risks, including the possibility of trisomy 18. I appreciate you rehashing your emotions and beliefs to share Abigail's story with us. |
| Name: | Amy Pearson |
| E-mail address: | mrs.apearson |
| City, State, Country: | California |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing you story, it is a blessing to have someone share what they have learned on a subject that is not well known. My best friend is about 15 weeks and her blood serum came back high for edwards syndrome, her next step is level 2 ultrasound and amnio. All I can do at this point is pray for her and the baby. I will direct her towards your site in hopes it will give her a better understanding as it has with me.God bless! |
| Name: | Sheryl |
| E-mail address: | swoods2511@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just had my baby girl on Jan.7/09. She has tri 18 and we did not know until she was born! It was a big shock to the whole family because we never heard of this before. I have three other kids and they are all normal. My baby girl is now 16 days old and is so strong and eating more ever day! I hope this is a good sign, but I'm bracing for the worst! I would just like to say I'm sorry and god bless you and your family! |
| Name: | nina_mendes |
| E-mail address: | nina_mendes@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | belgium |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | hey there,
last june i had a baby Nika with trisomy 18, we only knew 2 days after she was born after testing, but her hands ears and heart disorder already pointed that way. her birth and death were hard, i was really happy i was able to hold and kiss her. I had told my other kids (i had 7 already) she was an elf that came to our world by accident. My son dre said no mum, she has come cos she knows we r such nice people and she really wanted to see us. The small ones wanted a new baby, i am pregnant again, but i m very confused, can they tell me for shure if the new baby had trisomy 18? no mistakes? now ur site remembers me how much i longed for nika and how much i loved having her in my arms, but can i put my other kids to this, cos mummy was away from home for long and Nika was in a far hospital no way to go visit her every day. i am confused guess nothing else to do than put it in Gods hands, |
| Name: | Lee Anne |
| E-mail address: | lam61157@juno.com |
| City, State, Country: | Virginia |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | This has really help me understand Trisomy18 from the heart. I work on a Mother Baby unit @ a small hospital . We recently had a baby girl w T18 who lived a few days . I can listen to all the medical mumbo jumbo about it but this help me see it in a different light ...my heart. May God bless you & your family now & always what a beautiful tribute to your daughter. |
| Name: | Lee Anne |
| E-mail address: | lam61157@juno.com |
| City, State, Country: | Virginia |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | This has really help me understand Trisomy18 from the heart. I work on a Mother Baby unit @ a small hospital . We recently had a baby girl w T18 who lived a few days . I can listen to all the medical mumbo jumbo about it but this help me see it in a different light ...my heart. May God bless you & your family now & always what a beautiful tribute to your daughter. |
| Name: | Kelsey |
| E-mail address: | khsmile@sbcglobal.com |
| City, State, Country: | Texas |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | I found this because actually I'm doing a biology project on genetic conditions. and i chose Trisomy 18 because before i was born the doctors told my parents that I might have Trisomy 18. I dont but this has a special place in my heart. <3 |
| Name: | Deb Rashford |
| City, State, Country: | Munnsville, NY |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | In September my son and his wife found out that the baby that was due in January 2009 had Trisomy 18. This is the first site I have read on the subject. I let them tell me what they knew of the disease. They put them self in God's hands and choose life. Monday Jan. 5th the baby had a heartbeat. On Thurday Jan. 8th no heartbeat. God had decided. My daughter in-law was induced on Thursday and gave birth to a baby boy Friday Jan. 9, 2009.
Jebediah- "Beloved by God" Ian-"Lord is Gracious". I am so glad my daughter, the babies Aunt gave me this site. My son and his wife had blessed us with a beautiful baby girl May of 2007 so I so said that we will not be able to share our love with our grandson. I know what we will be missing. Your site has helped me to understand some of what my son and his wife will be going through. Maybe it will help me also. I told a friend today that the only thing worst then being the parent,is to watch your child in this type of pain and know that you can do nothing to help and at the same time you also feel this terrible loss. |
| Name: | Rebecca Krupp |
| E-mail address: | rebecken@msn.com |
| City, State, Country: | Sumrall, MS |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | I found this site as a link from youtube about several little trisomy 18 angels...
As a NICU RN, I want you to know how very much I love your children and recognize them as the very special little glimpse of heaven they bring into all our lives. May God bless you all and thank you for sharing your blessing with us... |
| Name: | Andrea |
| City, State, Country: | Brooksville, FL |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Hi, we lost our daughter Aly (Alyssa)this past March. She was full T18 and was stillborn. It was actually the cord around her neck that was the official 'cause'. I have just read your entry for Sunday, August 10, 2003. Thank you so much. Thank you for letting me know that you and others have felt as I am feeling. Some days I almost wish I'd have a full breakdown - then I wouldn't have to deal with trying to be 'happy' every day when I think of her constantly.
But, I will continue to pray and to lean on God - through the anger and through the tears. |
| Name: | Rachel |
| E-mail address: | Roxur2l8@cox.net |
| City, State, Country: | Pensacola, FL. |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing your pictures, your story & Abigal's story. As long as your site exists, you will be reaching the hearts of many people who will benefit from your kindness & wisdom. |
| Name: | Dyane |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.thehigginfam.blogspot.com/ |
| City, State, Country: | Alberta Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | We are also starting our journey. I'm 29 weeks pregnant with Adeline Sarah and she has been diagnosed 3 weeks ago. As hard as it is, I find comfort that we're not alone and I feel blessed to be carrying an angel. |
| Name: | Jeanne |
| E-mail address: | gmajeanne@comcast.net |
| City, State, Country: | Westminster, CO |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Infant Loss Site |
| Comments: | God Bless all parents of Trisomy 18 infants who gave so much love and caring as a mother and father before he/she went to heaven. These babies had wonderful parents! |
| Name: | Kim |
| E-mail address: | Khj678@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | Torrance, CA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I found your site a week after my daughter Faith died at 3 days old with T18. Reading Abigail's story helped me so much - it is so similar to Faith's. One of the main things I have been agonizing over is whether or not we should have given IV fluids when it was determined Faith couldn't eat. In our quest to provide comfort care only, had we chosen to do too little? Did I starve my baby? Did she suffer? But reading Abigail's story gave me peace of mind. At least I know that Faith never felt pain. No tests were done and no needles ever touched her body. She was surrounded by love and never left our arms. When you think about it, how can life be more perfect? |
| Name: | Heidi |
| E-mail address: | poet63@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Cincinnati, Ohio |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | five months ago, I learned that I was pregnant at age 45. I knew the risks and opted to not be tested for genetic abnormalities. Our first ultrasound at 13 weeks came back normal and we had hope that our baby would be born without complications. However, I noticed that at 19 weeks I was feeling very little movement. At my 20 week ultrasound we found out why. Our little angel also has "club feet", kidney problems and is measuring far below what should be. The doctor was kind but firm in her diagnosis. We go in a few short days to have the amnio to confirm Tri 18. The test will not have an impact on terminating the pregnancy, as I feel it is God's decision when to take our beloved home. I am so grateful that there is a site that explains, lovingly, the facts, myths and heartaches grieving parents must endure through all of this. |
| Name: | Dale |
| E-mail address: | dahopkins@zoominternet.net |
| City, State, Country: | Medina, Ohio, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | My wife and I are just at the very beginning of our own "Trisomy 18 Journey". She is ~15-16 weeks pregnant and in the last 2-3 weeks we have gone through the integrated testing (maternal serum screen plus level II ultrasound) and amnio procedure, and just received the devastating preliminary diagnosis of T18 this week. I am SO glad I found your web site today as I was searching the internet for information, and I am SO thankful to you for sharing your story. Your web site is amazing and it will be SO helpful to us. With kindest regards and best wishes to you and your family! |
| Name: | zizie |
| City, State, Country: | malaysia |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just lost my lovely son.he has edward syndrome.oh god!my life means nothing to me..i'm still crying.i miss him so much |
| Name: | helen |
| E-mail address: | tinkerbell2776@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | liverpool uk |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | hi it was lovely to read your storey, my grandaughter daisy mai was born on the 8.8.08, she had edwards and died at 10 days old. my daughter had no idea daisy had tri 18 untill she was born, we had daisy,s investigation last week and since found out she had mosaic tr1 18 , her only symptoms were low set ears webbed fingers and toe,s and a small hole in her heart,oh and a tooth. she died due to placenta failure in the womb, daisy was born at 41 weeks she was the first edwards to be born in 2 yrs at the hospital and is the biggest edwards baby they have seen she was 5lbs 8 oz ..all daisys organs failed because of the lack of oxygen. they said her edwards was milder than most so we will never know what her outcome would have been . but at least we had our little flower for 10 days and we will remember them with joy we miss her greatly but i,m sure like abigail they watch over us and will always be in our hearts. |
| Name: | Alana |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Hay
looking at the pictures and all i feel really bad. For school we had to do a projeect on T13. Your page really helped! God bless you and your family! |
| Name: | Sonja & Tj |
| E-mail address: | sonjasvedine@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Norwood Ma |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Hello,
I first wanted to start off by saying how sorry I am for your loss. Your daughter was truly a gift from heaven. I couldn't imagine having to go through that. I don't think I would be so strong. You all are a wonderful family, with a angel to protect over you all. God bless you! Sonja |
| Name: | Nishant Agarwal |
| E-mail address: | nishant2200@gmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Calabasas, CA, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I cannot describe how much I am in love with little Abigail. You were really brave in your decision and you were rewarded to be able to meet her for 5 days. In one photo, she had an eye open, and in one she was trying to grasp a finger. I almost cried.
My prayers with the little angel in heaven. She is in a better place. You are blessed to have her. |
| Name: | Stephanie |
| E-mail address: | sexton1133@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Murfreesboro, TN |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am in my 18th week of pregnancy and found out a few days ago that my quad four screen came back abnormal for Trisomy 18. My husband and I elected to have the quad screen so that we could prepare ourselves and get resources in place in the event that we were going to have a special needs child. I am very fearful of where my pregnancy may be heading.
I have a level II ultrasound scheduled Tuesday with a specialist and I have been doing all kinds of research on the internet to learn as much as I can in the event that we don't get the news that we want on Tuesday. I am so glad that I came across your website as it's the only thing that has come close to helping me figure out how we will move forward in our pregnancy should we learn that our baby has Trisomy 18. We've always known that no matter the situation, terminating the pregnancy is not an option for us. However, I couldn't figure out how I would survive the pregnancy knowing that if our baby does have T18, we would most likely be preparing for his/her death more so than his/her birth. Now, I see that should we get news we don't want to hear, we can survive it and move forward for our child's sake. My first pregnancy ended in miscarriage very early on and I then went on to have a beautiful healthy little girl who just recently turned five. I know that no matter what happens in this pregnancy, I must thank God for the beautiful gifts that He has given me in this life. I can't thank you enough for the gift that you are sharing with anyone that happens upon your page. Your story is beautiful and incredible. However, it's more inspirational than anything else and I appreciate your willingness to share with families that are going through this now or fear that they may go through this very soon. God bless you. |
| Name: | Lisa |
| E-mail address: | berroalisa@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Minneapolis, MN |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing your story of Abigail. I too had a daughter born with Trisomy 18. I delievered Olivia Mae on July 1st. 2007. Olivia did not survive the delivery. I only wish that I was given more thime with her but it was not meant to be. I hope you find peace and comfort in your path ahead. |
| Name: | Trish |
| E-mail address: | shipmantrisha@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Mount Gilead, Ohio |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | What a wonderful way to honor your beautiful daughter, Abigail. A friend from my church lost her little boy at 13 mos. from myotonic muscular dystrophy just a few days ago. Thank you for sharing your grief journey. Reading it helped me to understand what a mother really feels after losing her child...that not acknowledging the baby or avoiding the parents actually makes things sadder. I can better help my friend in her grief journey thanks to you. God bless you and your beautiful family. |
| Name: | Trish |
| E-mail address: | shipmantrisha@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Mount Gilead, Ohio |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | What a wonderful way to honor your beautiful daughter, Abigail. A friend from my church lost her little boy at 13 mos. from myotonic muscular dystrophy just a few days ago. Thank you for sharing your grief journey. Reading it helped me to understand what a mother really feels after losing her child...that not acknowledging the baby or avoiding the parents actually makes things sadder. I can better help my friend in her grief journey thanks to you. God bless you and your beautiful family. |
| Name: | emma |
| E-mail address: | emmajinks@live.com |
| City, State, Country: | uk |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | hi i was told two weeks ago about my baby dylan having edwards. i had abortion last week. i am trying to deal with this but finding it really hard, i wish i could of held him and kissed him. he was 16 weeks and i miss him terriably . |
| Name: | Aunt Cherie |
| E-mail address: | cheriemonroe@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | ElDorado Springs,Mo,USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Our great-niece was born yesterday with many of the characteristics of Trisomy 18. Our niece and her husband are just waiting for the official diagnosis. I'm struck by how much our little Josephine looks like Abigail and how sweet their little faces are. Truly like looking at little angels. May God bless you in your grief and keep our family strong in this frightening and uncertain time. Thank you for this beautiful and helpful site. I will encourage my niece and the rest of the family to stop by. |
| Name: | Reta |
| E-mail address: | r.mimms@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | McAlister, NM USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I only recently heard of Trisomy 18. Sharing Abigail's story has helped so many people. I can see that after reading the other posts. Bless you for caring and God bless your family. |
| Name: | amy |
| E-mail address: | noodlelegs@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | hendersonville nc |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just wanted to thank Abigail's mom for dedicating herself to this task of helping others with the diagnosis of Trisomy 18. I have just been trying to read about this disorder because of a friend whos yet-to-be born child has the diagnosis. Your website is very informative and gets to the heart of the matter for how indivduals make decisions and how the decision can affect them for the rest of their life. Thank you for talking people through your own experience and giving other resources. |
| Name: | Amber |
| City, State, Country: | Denver, NC, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am very thankful for all the time and effort you have put into this site. You have more information that A LOT of the other "medical" websites. I am very thankful that your daughter did get to spend 5 days with you and your family. My unborn nephew has been diagnosed with T-18 and I hope that we atleast get 5 days with him. I appreciate your kind words and please know that your daughters story has truly touched me and also inspired me to be hopeful! Thank you~God Bless you and your family |
| Name: | samantha - |
| E-mail address: | volland |
| City, State, Country: | coupeville washington |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | Wow, Iam deeply touched. I got the call a few days ago that I am hight risk for t18, that was the last thing that I expected.I cant stop crying and worrying, your stories and little angels have helped soo sooo much - I woul take the place of each and everyone of those babies any day if I could- they are so strong!!! I prey for everyone that has been effected by this - please prey for me, and every little angel!! they are the strong ones - we need to be strong for them!!! thank you sam |
| Name: | Ainsley Cone |
| E-mail address: | ainsley.nuhn@gmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Superior, Colorado, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for this website and your openness on how to help friends grieve. It is so helpful to hear what is and isn't helpful in being a friend to someone who is facing or has experienced such an overwhelming loss.
|
| Name: | Tim Hildreth |
| E-mail address: | timhildreth@windstream.net |
| City, State, Country: | Monroe, nc |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Thanks for allowing God to use Abigals LIFE to be a blessing. Today her life as well as the life of your family has helped me to better understand the part I can play in encouraging a friend who has just found out that their child is in fact T18. May God continue to richly bless you and keep you in His care.
Tim |
| Name: | Tara Balcom |
| E-mail address: | thebalcoms@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://thebalcomblog.blogspot.com/ |
| City, State, Country: | Tacoma, WA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Not sure what to write, other than thank you for sharing. I'm one month passed the loss of my little angel due to T18 (she only lived 64 hours) and feel completely turned upside down. I know there is "grief work" to be done, but feel so lost. I will continue to read your site to hear how you did it. I have a 2.5 year old I am still needing to live for but not sure what that looks like just yet. I know life goes on but not quite sure how. Thank you for your openness and allowing us to learn from your Journey. |
| Name: | Sharon |
| City, State, Country: | New York |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Name: | cborgella. |
| E-mail address: | cmellonb@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | new jersey |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | Abigail is very pretty as you said an angel visiting |
| Name: | Jen |
| City, State, Country: | Brentwood, CA usa |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for sharing your story. I have found your website to be very helpful in understanding how to be a good friend to those who are grieving.
|
| Name: | maria |
| E-mail address: | ladyeaglet@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Seattle WA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | God bless you for sharing about Abigail, You are an inspiration to many. you could have traveled to another state to terminate the pregnancy but you didnt thank God, and that gave us all a golden chance to me Abigail Grace. May our God continue to shower you and your family Grace and Mercies which are New every Morning and to strengthen you and Give you peace whenever you need it. Soon and Very soon we will catch up on Abigail and the rest of our Loved ones who have gone to be with Jesus!
God Bless you, Maria |
| Name: | Lacyn Laster |
| E-mail address: | lacyn_06@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://myspace.com/pixy06 |
| City, State, Country: | Fort Knox, KY, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I was only a month from my 19th birthday when I was told I was pregnant after ending up in the ER from a bad case od an URI. The father was 30. After 2 months, he left me and got us evicted from our home. I had nowhere to go. I was homeless, pregnant, broke, alone. My daddy managed to find me in Texas and take me back to Alabama with him. 5 months pregnant, I finally got to see a doctor. The rest of the pregnancy went fine. I was supposed to have a healthy baby girl. There were no indications that anything was wrong. The only support I had was my family. I had a planned induction date for October 2, 2007 at 8 pm. I barely dilated to 3 cm the next afternoon when Kyra's heartbeat started dropping. I had an emergancy c-section and my bay girl was born at 6:36 pm on October 3, 2007 with only my dad and stepmom there. Then they took her away...I didn't understand what was wrong. I wanted my baby. My dad came to the recovery room and was crying. The last time I saw my daddy cry was at his father's funeral in 2005. I couldn't comprehend anything at the time and soon passed out from exhaustion. The following morning, my dad and stepmom came back to Crestwood (Kyra was transported to another hospital). Eager to hear how my daughter was doing, not expecting anything to be too seriously wrong, I asked about her. And no one said anything. They were all silent. Looking to daddy with pleading, fearful eyes, I had to ask. "Daddy, what's wrong with my baby?" Then he started to cry. My stepmom had to explain her diagnosis to me. Kyra was all I ever wanted, ever needed. I was a single mother and so excited about the life I was going to have with my daughter. But that day, my world shattered. So many of my friends came to see me and congradulate me and see my daughter...but I had no baby to show them. She never got to go home. 3 days after she was born, she died in my arms. The first time I got to hold her was my last. Where I was supposed to be having a welcome home baby shower, I had to plan for a funeral instead. Her first birthday is coming up next month and I'm not doing ok at all. I'm pregnant again but not due until March. But, I still want her so much. I feel so guilty about this new baby. There are so many pains in this world, but the worst one known in life is a mother's pain of losing her child. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. No one deserves that horrible feeling. We are all connected through our angels, but I'm sorry for anyone who has to join to club. |
| Name: | Sandy |
| E-mail address: | petermc@telplus.net |
| City, State, Country: | Lowell Maine(30 Minutes N of Bangor) |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Hi,
I am still very much in my grief journey.I feel like it's dragged on so long,that I will never be able to rise above it.At times I feel shameful for how angry I have been at God,and for my lack of faith in him, to ever work in my life again.I have had 4 miscarriages in 4 years-the last miscarriage was 2 Fall's ago- 7 days before my only child was to start Kindergarten.I had to get myself together and do what I needed to for my son.I was still his Mom and I had a responsibility to him. I appreciate so much reading your story,because in my house and in my family and in my town-you don't talk about these things.People know they happened and they expect you to get over it and move on.We all know that's not how things work.When a woman can not do what they were meant to do down here on Earth-you feel shameful and unfit. This last child I lost 2 years ago had Trisomy 18.It was shocking then to hear those words,and I guess it's still hard to understand. You go through so many things-blaming yourself,God.......anyone else. My biggest "guilt" is not being able to give my son a baby sister like he so desires.........to see how lonely he is as the days go by.I wonder why God would give me a son,only to have him be so lonely.We don't have 30,000 to adopt a child. I had this day dream a few days ago,that I was in Heaven.My head was in Jesus's lap and I was crying.I asked the Lord if I was truly worthy.When I looked up,I saw 4 of the most beautiful children,and I knew they were the children I had lost down here on Earth. That is truly how I hope it will be someday when I get to Heaven.In the meantime,I hope that I can help others who are in pain,and wake up myself some day,and not feel like there is this lingering black cloud over me any longer. Thanks again for sharing your story about your beautiful daughter. Sandy |
| Name: | Alejandra |
| E-mail address: | alejandrapolina@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Monroe, NC |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just wanted to say that I was so touched by Abiagil's story and the wonderful parents she has!!
I have a friend that is going through the same situation. She just had a girl with Trisomy 18 and Dr's said she wouldnt survive after the birth. It's been a week and she is still alive. My friend is going through alot of pain, so we are just saying prayers for her family and her little baby! Thanks soo much for sharing your story...your baby girl is just perfect!! Hugs to all of your family!! Alejandra |
| Name: | ameena |
| E-mail address: | watrbubblehead@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | sydney |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | hi i ameena am 23years, i also had a true angel boy named Mohammed i lost him to EDWARD SYNDROME! When i was 32weeks i had an ultrasound scan and they told me that bubz might not live for more than a year theres a possibility he might have trisomy 18 it was heart breaking i cried and cried he was my first. His fingers were overlapped and his bowel was high lighted on the scan. With every mothers hope i preyed and preyed to God for this baby to be ok but unfortunately he wasn''t.
I conceived on the 10/06/2008 at Canterbury Hospital then got transferred to Randwick the same night then all tests were done for my angel and it was all negative come backs but he was my true ANGEL i met an angel in this world which im proud of having one he died on the 4/07/2008 in my arms! My thoughts and feelings are with you. May God bless u and ur family! |
| Name: | carol |
| E-mail address: | cfhuntinghawk@yahoo.ca |
| City, State, Country: | Manitoba,CANANDA |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | My precious Zachary Joseph was also born with T18. He was born with a cleft lip, clenched right fist and webbed toes. It was hard for us when the doctor's told us the news about how our baby could live but could also die. We didn't really know too much about these conditions. Reading your web site has helped and bought some peace of mind to me. My baby boy was born in October and passed away the same day, a week later my husband passed on. I know they are together with our creator and i will get a chance to see them both one day.God Bless you. |
| Name: | Barbara |
| E-mail address: | bhiscott@gmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | N.B., Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | In 1992, my son Cody was born with Trisomy 18. This is the first time I have searched to find information and found your story and pictures.The grieving process is over, for this happened 16 years ago. He was my last child. It helped to see that your daughter had many of the features,(face, hands, color) of Cody. He lived 5 hours short of two weeks. His heart was on the wrong side, his kidneys were damaged, the veins from his lungs were not where they were supposed to be, and many of his bones were broken. But he was a fighter. He would hear my voice and turn to try to find me. Finding your story has made me feel connected to a group of parents who understand the loss of a child, and yet the blessing you receive when he/she enters your life and then leaves it. You are forever changed. One day we will see each other again. Thank you for publicly sharing your journey. God bless
|
| Name: | jenniffer constanzo |
| E-mail address: | wilsonco1979@verizon.com |
| City, State, Country: | maipu,santiago,chile |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | thanks for shearing your story, my sister 24 had a baby girl three weeks ago, when we found out about the problem, a lot of people didn't know what it was about. In chile is rare to have this kind of syndrome. Is very sad and is her first baby but I know that she is not the only one. The entire family is full of faith and we pray for her and others babies every day.thanks u so much, you have a beautiful family and god bless to all the people around the world. |
| Name: | Michelle Gibson |
| E-mail address: | mich.gibson@paradise.net.nz |
| City, State, Country: | Lower Hutt,New Zealand |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thankyou for this website and sharing your beautiful daughter with us.I have just found out that my friend's baby boy has Edwards Syndrome & I had no idea what it was.He was born 8 days ago and baptised at the hospital chapel on Sunday.He is a beautiful wee boy.I haven't been able to stop crying but I know now how to support my friend and her family.Thank you so much. |
| Name: | Jose Alcala |
| City, State, Country: | Woodbridge, VA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just lost my nephew Alejandro Javier today, after 3 difficult days in this earth. He was a blessing for our family and will always be loved and remembered until we see him again in heaven. I loved this website and I am going to apply all of the things in the section about grief and what to say in order to help my brother and my sister-in-law go through this experience. Thanks and God bless you! |
| Name: | Rachelle Borel |
| E-mail address: | kajunattitude@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | St. Martinville, LA USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I personally had an ultrasound done (tuesday the 29th) and I was told that i am a high risk pregnancy and my baby is at risk for Trisomy 18. It scared the ever living lights out of me. And still today, I cry when I think that I might not get to see my lil man grow up. All i could do was think of the worst even when I was told that things are looking REAL good right now. His fingers/fist are NOT clenched, feet are not webbed and his heart is formed exactly how it should be for 18wks gestation. And jus tlike you stated, the doctor said he was looking for two things in particular and he didn't see them, so we still have a chance of everything being OK.
After reading your journal, I have to say it has helped me to better understand my condition and what my body is going through and to better except it. I'm sorry for your lost but want to also thank you for being strong enough for the rest of us, to post the information that you have. May GOD bless you!! |
| Name: | abbie eaton |
| E-mail address: | ichael9240@charter.net |
| City, State, Country: | Piedmont,sc |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I have a friend from church whose daughter-in-law had an ultrasound Mon. and the baby (little girl) has marker for edwards disease. Linda is heart-broken along with everyone else.This is her first grand child. I am certainly going to tell them about your web-site as they need this encouragement in their lives right now. And there simply are no words that can describe the beauty and elegance of your family and Abigail.As I read I cried for you all but not all in sadness but to know God loves you and your family so much as to have sent an angel to you for a while.You all are precious and in my prayers.
Sincerely, Abbie Eaton |
| Name: | Linda Kiser |
| E-mail address: | kiserdome@bellsouth.net |
| City, State, Country: | Charlotte, NC USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I just learned today that a friend's baby has trisomy 18 and I was trying to find out something about it and came across your story. After reading about the condition, your story was very helpful and uplifting. I hope that in time to be able to share your story with our friend. God bless you for sharing your story and the way you loved Abigail Grace. |
| Name: | Mark |
| City, State, Country: | MA |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | God Bless you all. What a wonderful website. |
| Name: | Dawn Thomson |
| E-mail address: | stlcardinalfan1970@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | New Lenox, IL |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you for the beautiful website. I think you are and will continue to be an inspiration for anyone needing support due to the loss of a child with Trisomy 18. We lost our first son, Brady, to Trisomy 18 when I was 6 1/2 months pregnant. His 11th birthday would have been tomorrow.
I especially love your information regarding talking to friends who have sufferred a loss. It should be required reading for all of our families :) Thank you again for sharing your beutiful story. Although I am 11 years into my journey, it is still comforting to know that others due understand. |
| Name: | Bridget |
| E-mail address: | blbmeraz@gmail.com |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I haven't finished reading all that I want to on your site but wanted to take a moment to thank you for it. I came here because I have a friend who has just received a prenatal T18 diagnosis, but in 2006 I lost a child at 21 weeks gestation due to a different defect, and so all your sections on grief were really relevant to me as well. Thanks for doing this. |
| Name: | Sheila Forde |
| E-mail address: | s-forde@sbcglobal.net |
| City, State, Country: | Chicago |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | What a heartbreaking story. You have a beautiful, strong and loving family. Abigail looks just like an angel and I'm sure God gave her to you because he knew that you are angels as well. That is why she was so comfortable and at peace. |
| Name: | Sue Vanderhoof |
| E-mail address: | svanderhoof@lawrencemrdd.org |
| City, State, Country: | Ironton, OH United States |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Hello.
My name is Sue Vanderhoof and I am the Director of Early Childhood Programs for the Lawrence County Board of MRDD. Recently a family enrolled in our Help Me Grow Program with an infant diagnosed with T18. Alexis was born at the end of May and Mom and Dad are young and struggling. After reading your wonderful story and viewing the pictures of Abigail and her family I am certain your family did all the right things. I am recommending this website to our HMG family and am hopeful it will provide the information (and courage) they will need in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing Abigail with me. I will always remember her precious face when meeting other young children with T18. |
| Name: | Kari Karley's Momma |
| E-mail address: | Kcannon28@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Zephyrhills, Fl |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | WOW! First I will start by saying I had a daughter named karley elizabeth. karley was to a trisomy 18. She was truly my Angel!! I looked through your site and cried because your angel also looks so much like my angel!! WOW I was totally lost for words. I was told that I was one of the youngest to birth a trisomy 18 child. I say NO it was my one in a life time chance to get to meet a REAL live Angel!!! Sadly Karley went back home on Feb. 4 1997. She changed my life forever leaving me with the most amazing story to tell everyone for the rest of my life. Karley was my life!! I would get mad and question God why he could do something like that to her, she was so little. Then one day a lady in the hospital (all childrens) placed her hand on my shoulder and said "she is hear as an angel" When i looked up the lady was walking away. I knew then karley wasn't a baby she was a real ANGEL, the day Karley went home she looked so angelic that everyone wanted to see her and touch her. I knew then karley had done her job hear on earth. Thank you for your time... In memory of "Mommy's Little Bum" Karley Elizabeth Smith-Oudshoff |
| Name: | Candice Wilkinson |
| E-mail address: | cece@telus.net |
| City, State, Country: | Coquitlam, Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I just want to thank you so much for your honesty and all of the work that you have put into this VALUABLE site. My husband and I are pregnant with our 2nd son. He is 21 weeks and has 2 markers for Downs. We have decided against the risk of amnio as it wouldn't change our mind about our child and the decision to carry him to term. Sharing your story helps us to know that we need to be thankful for him - and whatever we are given. I hope that you can find some peace in the fact that you are giving so much to people who need your words and reflections at such a difficult time. God bless you.
Candice Wilkinson |
| Name: | Morgan-Elizabeth |
| E-mail address: | morgan.hodges@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | New Zealand |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | thank you, your story is truly a heart warmer. Last year (2007) found out that i was pregnant it was unplanned but a very much wanted pregnancy for me as i had already lost my first son (15 weeks gestation). Due to the late misscarriage in my first pregnancy i was sent to a specialist i had all the normal scans early to confirm i was infact prengnat and that baby was viable. when i went to the 12 weeks scan every thing was ok and nothing came back abnormal so no invasive testing was done, fast forward to my 19-20 weeks scan to see if i was having a baby boy or a baby girl, the sonographer told me that i was having a boy but then walked out of the room to get my specialist so he could see the scan for himself, i was then taken into a room and told that my son had 2 major points that indacted T18 (cysts on the brain and kidney dilation) i tas told that the outcome was verry poor if my son had T18, and was told to terminate there and then. i asked if there was any testing that could be done that could either confirm or rule it out, that was when my Dr said we can do an amnio which i went ahead and did (i HATE needles) i thought the worst part was having the needle put into my belly just cm's away from my unborn son was the worst pain in my life little did i know that waiting the next 2-3 weeks was worse as i didnt know what to expect. 2-3 weeks late i got a call from my Dr informing me that my son didnt have T18 and that they didnt know what was wrong with him. I went to term with my son had him 40w + 4d via c-section. after he was born the Dr came to me and said that my baby has a clean bill of health but his kidneys do need to be monitored for the next year. my son was born on the 24th november 07
what i want to say is THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for your amazing story. xxxMorgan |
| Name: | Warren & Chrissy Coop |
| E-mail address: | wcoop@amcom.co.nz |
| City, State, Country: | New Zealand |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | We had our 5th child in 12th December 2007.She was T18 and lived 10.5 weeks.She died in her Daddy's arms 24th Feb 2008. I identify so much with your story, it helps to know what I'm going through someone else has travelled and survived. My heart is shattered into little pieces. At times I can't see for the fog in front of me and the sound of my crying.We called our baby girl Melody Jane, and she will always be a little Melody in our hearts.I too have gone into severe depression and holding on to life has become a daily decision, a choice.We love the Lord, yet my heart is sad towards Him.At times I'd rather curel up into a ball and just sleep forever, but we have 4 others to look after, 3 teenagers and a nearly three year old!!!!I'm so glad I've found your site, to see we are not alone is a comfort, sad as that is. |
| Name: | Diana |
| E-mail address: | nhollywoodred@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | Los Angeles, CA USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Hi:
I am affected by Trisomy 18 only in that a dear friend of mine lost her first child, a baby girl, after 5 months of pregnancy. I grieve for her and her husband, but know that they are, and will be wonderful parents. This really disappointed and hurt them and I let them know I was there for them 24/7. I have been honored to be included in their greiving process. They are slowly recovering and a have created a beautiful memory box for the daughter that wasn't born. It seems to help a lot and I am in awe of their strength. God bless your beautiful little Abigail - and thanks for being brave enough to have this forum. Peace and blessings to you. |
| Name: | Helen Leal |
| E-mail address: | helenyvictor@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | BELTON, TEXAS U.S.A |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | my name is Helen Leal and im 23 years old and 18 weeks pregnant i had my first ultrasound and my baby was diagnosed with down syndrome. I understand very much what your going through and about 1 yr ago i had a stillborn if u need someone im here to talk. My e-mail is helenyvictor@yahoo.com |
| Name: | Natalie Augustin |
| E-mail address: | natalie_augustin@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Canby, CA USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Dear Mindy, Thank you so much for creating such an awesome site for Trisomy 18 babies. My son and daughter-in-law are beginning the process of tests to determine if the little boy that they are carrying has the syndrome. He has a choroid (?) cyst on his brain. I have sent this site to them as an encouragement. They both love the Lord and know that they can trust their sovereign God. Thank you again for being so open and loving.
Sincerely, Natalie Augustin |
| Name: | anoymous nurse |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I recently took care of a wonderful family with a newborn Trisomy 18 and it was an enlightening experience that they are blessed to know this child. They may get to take her home. God bless you and your angel and my heart goes out to every parent with Trisomy 18 child. I did everything to make their stay wonderful with thier little baby and I hope they thought it was a good memory maker and not a frightening experience. |
| Name: | Gabby's Dad |
| E-mail address: | garygibbs@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | NYC |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | This week will be one year that my wife(Zay)and I said goodbye to our precious daughter Gabby. It has taken this long to speak to anyone else whose family is impacted by Trisomy 18. In reading all of the notes from the journey, I realized that we are not alone, neither are our precious children. I believe that Gabby and Abigail and all of your angels are speaking to us..."be strong, be of good courage...this is not all that there is." Cherish each moment, every second... before birth and after. This is not all that there is.....God Bless You All |
| Name: | Rachel Winsor |
| E-mail address: | RachelWinsor@att.net |
| City, State, Country: | Fullerton, CA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | Jessa Renee was born June, 11 2008. She was with us for 6 days. We learned of her heart defect at 36 weeks we went in for what we thought would be a routine ultrasound to check placement of the baby. They said you won't see much at 36 weeks but the ultrasound is routine...Oh what you can see at 36 weeks. We were sent for a level two ultrasound and then a level three all to get a closer look at her heart and just why she was so small. At 38 weeks an amnio was performed and it was confirmed our daughter had Trisomy 18. They tell us our chances of having a baby with this condition were less than one percent. Who would have known the pregnancy had gone so well and all of my ultrasounds looked exactly as they should. I think it did not show up earlier becasue I could not have made the decision to terminate I was already in love with her. I was not strong enough to know of her condition for most of the pregnancy, surly I would have had a heart attack. We expected her to not make it through delivery because of her heart, part of me hoped she would not make it through becasue I was sure it would make it so much worse if she did. I was very wrong...what we got was a huge gift. Six of the most amazing days with her. She got to meet her big sister, we all got to love her and take her home. After many weeks of tears she came and gave us a lot to smile about. She gave us back our smiles, laughter and she gave us peace. She did not suffer when her time came she just went to sleep. We were so grateful for that! When we found out about her condition many of our friends said they were praying for a miracle...I believe we got a six day miracle a gift that has forever changed our lives for the better. Thanks for reading about our lovely Jessa. Our hearts still ache because we miss her but we will be all right because we knew her. |
| Name: | Lindsay |
| E-mail address: | lindsay7885@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | AR |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | I am 20wks pregnant and recieved the Trisomy18 diagnosis on Monday for sure. When I had my sonogram they found that my baby girl had a single unbillical artery in her unbillical cord and well as 2 choroid plexus cysts on her brain. I have done much researching and read that the cysts will usually heal on their own and she can be fine with the SUA. I have decided to carry to term and think its gods choice when she goes,not mine. They say she is not as bad off as some and I am just hoping and praying for the best!! They said her heart and everything else looked okay and I have another sono in a week and a cardiologist will be there to look the heart over once again. Please pray for me and my baby girl and keep us in your thoughts..lindsay |
| Name: | sherri s |
| E-mail address: | foreveraaliyah26@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | hermitage tn usa |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | i have a baby due in october with this disorder and its tearen me apart i dont know how to handle it. i was told she has a whole extra set of chromosones instead of 1 like most babies born with this disorder. i dont know what to do. im scared and at the same time keep tellin my self she will be ok and live. |
| Name: | Rosie |
| E-mail address: | rcullen7930@q.com |
| City, State, Country: | Eugene, OR (Formerly Cambria, CA) |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Mindy, Thank you for your BEAUTIFUL memories of your daughter Abigail. I can tall by reading the entries in this Guestbook that your story has helped many.
I ALSO had a daughter with Trisomy 18. We were blessed that our daughter lived 14-1/2 years - yes YEARS! I know that may sound impossible to some, but it is a fact. Her name was Janette Ann "God's Gracious Gift". We called her Janny. She definately had her share of them. Upper respiratory infections, and primary pulmonary hypertension to name two. She didn't walk or talk, but she could really express herself. The thing that simply captivate everyone (especially me) was her SMILE. People use to come up to me and say, "if Janny can smile like, I don't have any reason to frown!" She was a great inspiration to many people. She taught me/us (including out other three children) that you don't have to build bridges or write great books to be a successful contributing member society. Janny's contributions were different than other people, but they were none the less valuable. I still hear from people about how Janny affected their lives. I miss her tremendously, but I know that she is in heaven with Abigail and so many other wonderful babies and children. God bless all of you who are touched by the lives of these special babies and children with Trisomy 18. Love, Prayers & Hope Rosie |
| Name: | sara powers and baby girl raven |
| E-mail address: | ravensmommy050208@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | indiana pennsylvania |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | in reading little abbys story i realized how lucky Lester and I are to have our 6 week beautiful baby girl Raven Jade Wesner. Raven has trisomy 21 (down syndrome) we refused an amnio because it was 2 risky and wudnt change anything DS isnt something u have prepare 4 other than emotionally & 4 me that was easy i too believe in God & i trust him that we were made 4 each other he trusted noone else with such an incredible child. and i am sure that y ur family was given abigil. i cant imagine the trials God has put u thru but when Raven had to stay in the hospital for the 1st 8 days of life it felt like the worst. Raven has an atrio-ventricle canal defect in her heart (shes missing the walls seperatin the left & right side & also 2 valve that separate top and bottom shell get surgery in 4-5 month and im so scared of losing her but i make the most of today and pray 4 the future. i admire ur strength & ur faith. as i sat rockin Raven in the hospital i thanked God that i had her even if 4 a minute it wud b worth it |
| Name: | Katie Effinger |
| E-mail address: | k_effinger@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | Oklahoma City, OK. |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | My niece had T18 she lived for 34 days, her name was Grace Elizabeth. She was born at full term and we were all expecting a perfect healthy girl, but to our shock and surprise she was born with T18 and Spina Bifida. I was pregnant with my son at the time of her birth and death. So it was really hard for me and it is still hard for me. I was inspired by your page, how you have such faith and how strong you are. How do you do it? It wasn't even my child, and I still can't get over her death and it will be 2 years this October. Thank you for being such an inspiration to me and many others.
|
| Name: | Leah |
| City, State, Country: | Bethlehem, PA, USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Your beautiful baby girl, Abigail, has been an inspiration to me. I am not pregnant with a baby with this disorder, but found out a friend of a friend is. I have a daughter who is 15 months old and healthy. I admire you for your courage and strength. I cried reading your story about Abigail, but have come to realize that all life is precious, no matter how short it is. May your Abigail rest in peace and visit you through the warmth of the sun. Bless you all! Leah. |
| Name: | mackenzie utley |
| E-mail address: | macknezie@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | grand forks nd |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | mindy and family,
i am so sorry for your loss, but i am happy you have taken it as well as you have! he storywas sad but beautiful at the same time! |
| Name: | Beverly Webb |
| E-mail address: | cuddles_webb@hotmail.com |
| City, State, Country: | Canada |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I too had a baby boy who had trisomy 18 on September 19,2006. I did terminate pregnancy as I was 21 weeks and he had such a bad case. I went to Halifax NS and there was nothing right about the baby , he even had 2 holes in his heart and his heart was on the wrong side. I want to try again but I am 36 ad scared it would happen again. I think about him everyday as I did get to see him and amongst the abnormalities he was beautiful.He is with my father now and also with Abigail. Thank You very much to let me sign this book as it helps to write things down. |
| Name: | karen tulloss |
| E-mail address: | karentulloss@yahoo.com |
| City, State, Country: | dayton,ohio,montgomery |
| How did you find this site?: | Message Board |
| Comments: | i'm 20 weeks pregnant, and this pregnancy has been diagnosed with trisomy 18, i'm carrying to term, cause i dont believe in abortion, this is the worst experience i ever had to go through, feeling the movements, and wait for the death. i'm glad you were so strong and caring. and that you got through it ok. you had a very beautiful daughter, mine is a daughter also, at times i wished she would go ahead and pass away. i trust God, and lean closer to him, i cant help wondering why i didnt miscarriage in the beginning. i can handle that. this is so hard. |
| Name: | Sue |
| E-mail address: | uusue@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | My brother-in-law and his wife are expecting their third child, and just received a diagnosis of trisomy 18, so I've been trying to learn about this condition, and how I can help.
I was caught by surprise, to find how strongly this research has once again drawn to the surface the loss of my infant son, Luke Aaron. He would have been 19 on July 27. I've spent the past two nights with tears streaming down my face, reading other parents' stories. But you know, it's bittersweet ... like I've been given permission to acknowledge the grief that will always be part of me, and remember my few hours with Luke. It's been so many years since anyone has remembered him with me. Thank you so much, Mindy, for sharing your and Abigail's journey with us!!! Sue |
| Name: | vinnie austin |
| E-mail address: | vinnie_austin@fwmetals.com |
| City, State, Country: | Fort Wayne Indiana |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Bless you Mindy its good to know you are still the same caring
person you always were. Heart felt wishes. Vinnie |
| Name: | ily |
| E-mail address: | ileanagray@msn.com |
| City, State, Country: | NM |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your story of Abigail.
and so much information. My daughter was diagnosed with a baby boy with trisomy 18 on her first ultra sound they said something was wrong after a cvs it was confirmed. she is now a little over 12 weeks and has decided to carry Adam she has named the baby as long as she is able to do so. I come here often and get help on how to help her. thanks for sharing .it is very comforting to me that i am not alone . |
| Name: | lucy hopper |
| E-mail address: | lucy_hopper@yahoo.co.uk |
| City, State, Country: | devon |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | My beautiful baby girl Emily Jayne passed away back in 2006 and I just want to say that this site really helped me during that heartbreaking time. 13wks ago I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl whom I called Esme Jayne and It has been a difficult and wonderful time. My 2nd pregnancy was difficult emotionally and it was hard to imagine that everything would be ok.
I'm now getting to grips with having a new baby and it is challenging! But I would encourage people to try again as it is the most wonderful thing in the world to bring your baby home. My thoughts are with anyone going through what I had to and you never forget but there is light at the end of the tunnel. xx |
| Name: | Tonya Lara |
| E-mail address: | etkrm125@msn.com |
| City, State, Country: | Milington,Tn,USA |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | It really hekped me to read Abigail's story. I just had
a baby girl named Rebecca born on May 1st and she past away on May 6th. There were so many things that were the same with Abigail and Rebecca. It just felt comforting knowing that someone else had all the same feelings as me. I am now greiving and tryingto get past this but it is so hard. I will visit Abigail's page to help me in doing this. Tonya |
| Name: | Alex Spence |
| E-mail address: | alexandra_spence@yahoo.com.au |
| City, State, Country: | Sydney, NSW, Australia |
| How did you find this site?: | Search Engine |
| Comments: | Thank you so much for sharing your story of Abigail. Our baby girl Taylor Rose was diagnosed with T18 via a amnio at 17 weeks. We received the result on the 1/5/08 and I delivered her on the evening of 6/5/08 after a 34 hr labour. I had such troubling finding information & resources in Australia and only wish I had found your site sooner, your great strength encourages me to continue struggling though each painfully emotional day. Thank you, Alex |
| Name: | Dianne |
| E-mail address: | idididitidid@aol.com |
| City, State, Country: | Norfolk UK |
| How did you find this site?: | Link from another Trisomy 18 Site |
| Comments: | I have just returned from supporting my daughter through a level 11 scan during which she was told her baby girl may have tri 13 or 18. We know she has a cleft lip and a amneo test has been offered. My first thought was to search for info and out of all that I have found yours is the most presious. My daughter is going forward hoping for the best. She lost a baby last year and is so strong I admire her so much.
I have told my daughter special people are given speical babies and if our grandaughter has any problems then that will only make us love her more if that is at all possible Thank you so much for sharing your story it is truly inspiring Dianne XX |
| Name: | Mindy |
| City, State, Country: | Carrollton, OH |
| How did you find this site?: | Other |
| Comments: | Welcome to Abigail's Guestbook. Over 1000 people have signed her book so far! We would be very happy to have you sign it as well. Please feel free to read other people's messages as well.
Love, Mindy |