I was sweeping my kitchen floor about a month ago, and then I remembered this…
During my pregnancy with Abby and Bella, we walked through a bit of a hiccup.
When I was about 18 weeks along, I went in for the prenatal screenings. I drank the horrible orange sugary stuff from a paper cup, my blood was drawn, and all of the regular tests were performed to ensure a healthy pregnancy. I waddled out of the hospital with an assured feeling that all was well.
About a week later, I wasn’t prepared when I received a call informing me that the girls’ numbers seemed to be a bit “off” , possibly indicating Down Syndrome. I was instructed that an amniocentesis (taking a sample of amniotic fluid and testing it for an extra chromosome)was the only way to receive a definitive answer.
But this procedure came with a risk of miscarriage.
Tom and I prayed on it and ultimately decided against the procedure. Instead we chose to wait and see when the girls arrived what God had in store for us.
I would be lying if I told you I never gave one more thought to one or more of my children being born with Down Syndrome. But we felt strongly that the chances of us losing one or both babies didn’t align with us. So we waited until their birth.
If you’re still with me, thank you!
Personally, I felt incredibly supported during this pregnancy hiccup. From my physicians (who did their job and scared the shit out of me) to my husband (Tom Walsh Super Genius for the win), to my faith walk gently leading me to our decision (go God).
I am also PRO-CHOICE. I would never question another woman who would make a different decision than me at that moment. Because humans are complicated. And life is tricky. And not every woman is as supported as I was in that moment.
Chances are pretty good if you’re reading this right now, you or someone you know has been faced with a difficult decision regarding pregnancy - planned or unplanned. Or having access to birth control. Or endometriosis. Or…
ALL Women need access to safe reproductive healthcare.
Women should ALWAYS have the reproductive FREEDOM to choose what is right for THEM.
Friends, as we tread into election season, let us be kind. And also, let us rally with our VOTE.
I WILL ALWAYS STANDBY WOMEN'S RIGHTS.
If that upsets you, please feel free to unfollow / unfriend me. I wish you nothing but the best always.
With Love & Respect for Women's Rights,
Michelle
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