Her Story
Lila was born with Down syndrome. Her parents knew before she was born, and the doctor who told them said that Lila would have a hard life. The doctor told them about some of the medical issues that Lila could have and concluded by mentioning that her parents had the option to terminate the pregnancy.
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Obviously, her parents chose to keep their baby and a few months later, Lila was born. Lila has had some medical issues. They were hard, but they were treatable. She has the best smile and a mischievous spirit. She lifts the spirits in a room. Not a day goes by that her parents regret the decision to keep their baby girl.
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Lila and her family are part of a growing community of people who support Down syndrome. It’s important to spread awareness and show support because a large part of the world does not welcome those with Down syndrome.
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In the US and France, the rate of termination of preterm babies with Down syndrome is 70-80%.
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In Denmark and Iceland, the termination rate is nearly 100%. That is the goal in many countries.
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In schools, people with DS have to fight to be included and are usually segregated.
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Within the last 50 years, most people with Down syndrome were sent to live in institutions. Very few lived in their communities.
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In many states, people with Down syndrome can’t get an organ transplant.
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Abuse happens every 98 seconds, and people with disabilities are 2 times more likely to experience abuse.
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Lila, her family, and her friends want to make the world a more accepting and safe place for people who have Down syndrome. Please join her in supporting people with Down syndrome.