The views expressed on my blog are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer.
Will new Down syndrome test open a "Pandora's box?"
- Details Published on Sunday, 12 June 2011 21:23
Today, I talked to Malcolm Ritter of the Associated Press in a two-part series about the new upcoming prenatal tests for Down syndrome. In the first part, Ritter starts, "Companies are racing to market a more accurate blood test than those available now that could spare many women the need for an amnio or CVS. It would retrieve fetal DNA from the mother's bloodstream. And the answer could come before the pregnancy is obvious to others. For some women, that might mean abortion is a more tenable choice. For others it could be a mixed blessing."
In the second part, Malcolm Ritter starts, "Imagine being pregnant and taking a simple blood test that lays bare the DNA of your fetus. And suppose that DNA could reveal not only medical conditions like Down syndrome, but also things like eye color and height. And the risk for developing depression or Alzheimer's disease. And the chances of being gay." Would you want to know that information? And, should you even be able to know it in the first place?
Category: NewsCall to Protect Adults with Down Syndrome
- Details Published on Friday, 10 June 2011 12:40
Under the current law, people with Down syndrome and other disabilities are vulnerable to unthinkable acts of abuse that are happening in large numbers in the Commonwealth. In FY2010 alone, the Massachusetts Disabled Persons Protection Commission received over 3,500 reports of abuse of persons with developmental disabilities. We can change this with House Bill 523, "An Act to Require National Background Checks," which would require a national criminal background check of candidates who apply for positions to work with individuals served by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). How can you help? Make a phone call today to one of these legislators.
Going to Visit MDSC's New Home Tomorrow
- Details Published on Thursday, 09 June 2011 01:40
Can you believe the day is almost here? After being established in 1983, your Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress now has a physical home. I hope that you and your family will join us tomorrow, Thursday, for our Open House. More than just a time to see the office and meet the 7-person management team, this will be an opportunity to celebrate you and your steadfast belief in an organization that strives to maximize the potential of people with Down syndrome each day. See you soon!
Down Syndrome Walk is Tomorrow!
- Details Published on Wednesday, 08 June 2011 01:07
Tomorrow, June 12, is the day that I join all of my patients and their families as we walk to raise funds for the Down Syndrome Program at Children's Hospital Boston. It's been a privilege working with you over the past two years. I'm thankful for any support that you could supply through this link.
Honor Father with your Great Story!
- Details Published on Monday, 06 June 2011 13:28
Want to honor the father who has a son or daughter with Down syndrome? Why not share his story on the NDSS's My Great Story site? What makes you proud about your dad? How has he celebrated the richness in all your children, including your son or daughter with Down syndrome?
MDSC Has an Open House
- Details Published on Saturday, 04 June 2011 16:11
Your Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) has recently opened the doors to our first office, and you and your family are invited to join us for the celebration! Come meet the Board and management team members and have an opportunity to learn more about our programming. Details for the Open House on the MDSC web page.
Chances for Sibs to have Child with Down Syndrome
- Details Published on Friday, 03 June 2011 12:03
Sue Levine and I often get the question from brothers and sisters: What are the chances that I could have a child with Down syndrome one day? On our YouTube Channel, we tackle this question--and others from our book, Fasten Your Seatbelt: A Crash Course on Down Syndrome for Brothers and Sisters.
Dr. Skotko talks to Genome Technology
- Details Published on Thursday, 02 June 2011 19:41
I talked to Tracey Vence of Genome Web about the upcoming new prenatal tests for Down syndrome. As many of your know, some of the biotechnology companies are indicating that their new tests might be available as soon as fall of this year. Is the medical community ready? Will women be able to make an informed decision about their pregnancies? What will happen to the numbers of babies being born with Down syndrome?
Down Syndrome Program: New Web page!
- Details Published on Friday, 27 May 2011 12:48
Our Down Syndrome Program at Children's Hospital Boston has a brand new web page, packed with information for parents and providers. In particular, be sure to check out the Speaker Series link, where you can view archived Webinars from experts on a range of topics including toilet training, behavior management, obstructive sleep apnea, and dental issues, among others.
Walking for Down Syndrome Program
- Details Published on Wednesday, 25 May 2011 20:03
One of my favorite days is almost here--June 12, the day that I am joined my all of my patients and their families as we walk to raise funds for the Down Syndrome Program at Children's Hospital Boston. It's been a privilege working with you over the past two years. I'm thankful for any support that you could supply through this link.
Category: News
