On November 7, 2018, at a routine 20-week ultrasound, we were informed that our Baby had a long list of markers that pointed toward a chromosomal disorder. An additional genetic blood test revealed that Baby would have a 70% likelihood of Trisomy 18 (Edward's Syndrome). Combined with the results of the ultrasound, the likelihood is nearly definite.
Trisomy 18 is a random genetic occurrence at conception causing the Baby to be formed with an extra #18 chromosome.
Varying statistics state that 90% of Trisomy 18 babies do not make it to birth, and of those that do, 90% do not make it to their first birthday. It used to be termed a fatal/lethal diagnosis (and some doctors unfortunately still use this term) but extraordinary cases do exist of babies who survive longer than expected. Although these cases are not "the norm," we still remain hopeful that the possibility exists that we can still bring our Baby home alive from the hospital.
The outlook is grim and uncertain. We are taking it day by day.
We will continue to have hope and pray for peace in God's will for our Baby.
There is no lack of faith in this home, and there is sure confidence that Our Lord has a plan!
Baby is a human being and has dignity like any other person, and has the right for a chance to fight to live.
God is a God of miracles, so we are not going to rule out the possibility of a miracle for our Baby!
We are asking your prayers (will you join us?), and why not ask our heavenly friends to pray for us to God as well?!
We are asking Venerable Servant of God Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen to intercede for us to God and ask for a miracle that our Baby be born perfectly healthy, without any complications.
PLEASE JOIN US IN THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:
Eternal Father, You alone grant us every blessing in Heaven and on earth, through the redemptive mission of Your Divine Son, Jesus Christ, and by the working of the Holy Spirit.
If it be according to Your Will, glorify Your servant, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, by granting the favor I now request through his prayerful intercession THAT BABY LAFOND IS BORN ALIVE AND HEALTHY, WITHOUT ANY COMPLICATIONS. But most of all, your will be done, good and merciful Father!
I make this prayer confidently through Jesus Christ, Our Lord! Amen.
IMPRIMATUR
+Most Reverend Daniel R. Jenky, C.S.C., Bishop of Peoria
Thank you, and may God bless you abundantly!
In Christ,
Joshua & Robin, Anthony, Maggie, James, Gianna, Marta, and Maria LaFond
P.S. The following are a few websites that we reference with helpful information and stories of children born with Trisomy 18:
https://www.internationaltrisomyalliance.com/https://trisomy.org/http://www.prenatalpartnersforlife.org/http://www.bellasgiftbook.com/(Features a book about Bella, the daughter of former senator and presidential candidate Rick Santorum and his wife Karen.)