Sorry to hear that...I know that when we hear such news about our kids, it is ALWAYS difficult. But please start now looking for lots of different groups, play date type places, etc. for kids with Down Syndrome. I know a girl where we live, she hangs around with ALL the other kids her age...she's about 13. She is part of all the competitions we have for the kids here, she does her piece in talent shows here, the other kids protect her and play with her, etc...She actually is a great swimmer and will be competing soon in some worldwide swimming competitions, etc...but her mother treats her like all other kids to a certain extent. If your sister and your niece have the support, find out about all these things they can do, it will be much easier and her life can be great too! Good luck!

Hugs and prayers. Everything will work out, it'll be ok. Start planning a trip now, you'll feel better once you see her, and it'll be great for her too.

There is not a lovelier (or easier) baby in the world than a down syndrome baby. I know this because my Granddaughter, age 11 is down syndrome. I remember how I cried when I found out and have had guilt every since that day. She is the greatest gift of love I have ever experienced. The joy she carries is infectious and stays with you for days after being in her presence. I hope that you can help your sister by letting her know this. Her baby will do anything that any other baby will do, just a bit slower and with a lot more joy. The rewards of a down syndrome baby are much greater than a normal baby. They are easier to deal with and share thier little hearts like no other child in the world. Honestly, your sister is in for a real treat.

I agree with AGreenWon. Down's Syndrome children are some of the happiest MOST joyful children. They live to love & be loved.

Of course, there are challenges in raising a DS child, but most of those challenges will come through the ignorance of other people. Along with those challenges though, she will experience real blessings.

Years ago when I worked at a market, a little girl with DS used to come in, just a pure joy, with long beautiful blond hair. Once I was up on a ladder and dropped something, she ran over to pick it up and hand it to me. Now how many of these awful skids would help out like that?!

One thing a lot of people uneducated about Downs do is to expect every Down Syndrome kid to be Corky from Life Goes On (am I dating myself here?) The Corky types are best case scenario.

Please don't start at your sister from the perspective she willhave a high functioning Downs Syndrome kid. Statistically, that isn't likely.

It might be beneficial to her to help her research support in her area (support groups, resources, etc.). She will probably need it, and she is lucky to have a sister like you willing to help.

Awe, that is never comforting news to hear. I completely understand. My (almost) 2 year old nephew has DiGeorge Syndrome, which has a lot of similarities to Downs. He is missing his 22 chromosome. I have to tell you, he is the sweetest, happiest most loving baby. And each milestone he passes, is that much more exciting because we aren't sure if he is going to actually accomplish them at all! It is a celebration every time he learns something new. Right now it is his speach. He may not ever have a normal vocabulary. He knows a lot of sign language. But he does say "IRONMAN!". And daddy, and mommy and grandma. That's about it. But every time he yells out IRONMAN, everybody in the room just lights up.

The medical problems are difficult. And sometimes very stressful for all of us, but those are things you just figure out. Your sister WILL need your support. Even if it is just an ear listen, a shoulder to cry on... or a break while she goes to get herself a mani-pedi. Be there for her. And if you ever need to talk, PM me. I am in your shoes.

Some of my favorite people are downs, they are tge clients I think is hardest to lose and will be hard to leave when I move on from this field. Several have jobs went to school and 1 is going to college for a social work certificate. They are loving kind and oh so generous and give the best hugs. You can help by letting her talk, vent find services to help her, info all over the place she will want and need. Babies are a beautiful thing a special one is just a new and different challenge and a gift to each person he or she meets.

Oh and I almost forgot my favorite and young man (well he was in his 40s but seemed so young) had downs I worked with him and when I was pregnant with my ds he was so excited for me. When he found out I had the baby he all by himself looked up the number for the hospital to find visiting time, went out and bought a fabric clown baby toy called a taxi and came to see us. I cried because it was so very sweet and because he was excited I let him hold the baby because no one ever let him before he made all sorts of comments about tiny toes and handsome eyes it was a joyful visit.
Later I found out from his mom what a challenge it had been for him to accomplish that visit. He'd never used a phone book bever took a cab, never shopped without her help but he had wanted so bad to do "all the nice things for a new baby like regular people" in his own. I cried. I still have the clown toy safely put up, his name was mike, and he was such a wonderful guy. Always made people smile and happy and I was proud to call him my friend