Life Before Birth: The Down Syndrome Decision | Real Stories Full- Length Documentary

The very existence of children who were born with Down syndrome is threatened as never before. The latest non-invasive tests during pregnancy mean parents will know with close to 100% accuracy whether their unborn child has downs, and the current reality is that most will choose to abort. Are you choosing children in the way that you choose products?
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From A Life Worth Living
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[@charlesgraham9954]

my aunt spent 36 years of her life at the state level working with the mentally handicapped. i grew up with 4 of her girls my aunt cling to, their families just stop coming around. so my aunt brought them girls to every social even our family had. Thanksgiving, Christmas. my aunt was selfless, passionate and thought of ever one else. she has since past. but every time i see a sunset i think of her. warm, laid back and beautiful.

[@traciemartin3785]

@Charles Graham Too beautiful. There aren't many left like your aunt. I'm happy she left behind such precious memories and thoughts for you to remember. May God bless her sweet soul. May God bless you and your family, as well. ❤️🙏🏾

[@vegasu9418]

ew 🤢

[@skeshavarz60]

Charles Graham, what you wrote is so beautiful! I just loved it! your aunt was a truly great person! God bless her soul!

[@ashley6736]

@@vegasu9418 🤢🤮🖕

[@ravenblue7805]

@@vegasu9418 Hmm.....interesting.... The fact that you’ve so eagerly identified your low rung position on the ladder of humanity, far beneath the subjects of this documentary, only goes toward proving your incandescent ignorance is absolute. People with Downs are *aware* of their disability and know, for the most part, how they’re limited by it.. You don’t...

[@HS-em9tw]

I love what the father said about releasing expectations and just loving the person in front of you.

[@erinthesystem9608]

Yes. That is good advice for not wasting one's life: expecting what "should" happen can lead to real misery.

[@DrGarri]

7:52 "I am a man with Down Syndrome, and my life is worth living"...I broke down in tears when I heard him say that, and I felt so ashamed of myself... I had always thought that if a couple has the chance to know at an early stage that their child would be born with Down Syndrome, that the best would be to terminate the pregnancy, shame on me for my prejudice, based on my total ignorance, I thank those who made this documentary for making me a better person. 39:16 "I was a seed, and now I am a flower", and yes, you all are, thank you for making many of us become gardeners.

[@justinpullin98]

Justin Pullin Anastasia majoras, Destiny harmon Alan Doughty

[@lisaarmstrong2809]

his life is worth living. he has feelings just like everyone else

[@PhonkinPlants]

It's take a real individual to look within themselves and realize they were wrong. you're already better than 95% of people in the world regardless of your mistake. We all do the best or at least myself, I do the best I can with the information I have. You can't know something you just don't know.

[@onlyme219]

I'm a care/support worker in the UK helping adults with down syndrome and I can tell you from my personal experience they are really honest, lovely, funny, positive, and genuinely loving people. I hope my involvement in supporting these people has added in a positive way in their lives because they have all added a positiveness to mine.

[@onlyme219]

@@agme8045 That's life sometimes get over it, better to have loved than not loved at all

[@yomomma9256]

first first firstly

[@kartik9892]

@@agme8045 interesting how ive noticed a lot of people believe parents having to see their kids die is somehow horrible then kids having to see their parents die. Maybe you dont believe that, but ive noticed it for many people

[@onlyme219]

@@yomomma9256 Are you ok?

[@alissahhodges5854]

@@agme8045 yeah why live 40 years when mamma can end your life before birth right? What's the point of your comment? My husband passed at 31 and we all are still happy he was with us for even a short time. You seem to believe their life has no value if its shorter or different and that shows pure ignorance!

[@shellsnott]

Something all these people with downs have in common is supportive parents and a supportive nurturing environment - it make all the difference, and is wonderful to see. In a country or environment that is poverty stricken, without the resources that are needed, children with disabilities rarely have acceptance or opportunities to grow and shine as they should. How I wish for this environment to be available to all children, differently abled or not. The world would be such a different place.

[@khrystsinanavumenka8052]

So true.. I recently watched a documentary about a family from Russia where a son has ds. The mother is doing all she can. But lack of money, lack of acceptance in the society, lack of access to education and early intervention programs are making things very though… and the comments under the video are the most heartbreaking part of it. People say terrible ugly things about “these children are ruining parents lives”, “these people should be put away from the society” etc. So sad 😭

[@justinpullin98]

@@khrystsinanavumenka8052 Justin Pullin Rocio Garcia Heath Pawlak

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

Yes. These children will not be able to survive in a harsh world of developing and under-developed nations.

[@zannejae196]

@@ManishKumar-sr8zh I was wondering about that as well. I could see them getting exploited fairly easily as well. It seems like they need an advocate throughout life

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

@@zannejae196 Life is extremely tricky and absurd. Thats why we need Love to guide us

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

Not everyone has the money or the heart to give this much care to the child with disability.

[@graceanderson7933]

If you can't care for a disabled child you shouldn't have children at all

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

@@graceanderson7933 very interesting philosophy.

[@ingridakerblom7577]

That's the absolute truth! It's takes HUGE support and we don't offer that support as a society. So it's falls on the parents & often the woman alone..soo.. Unless things change we really can't shame people who are worried or decide to terminate. Bcs a woman who terminates dosen't say it's not OK that people with downs exist. She says she can't do it with her circumstances. No woman aborts a fetus "for fun" it will affect them somehow & follow them for life, and that's bad enough without the constant shaming & unwanted opinions... Also Downs vary much in every person who has it. Some seem almost completely"normal", it's almost noticeable, but for others Downs brings with ut severe autism, they might never speak, issues with internal organs like the heart & kidneys, you may need tube feeding, bcs issues with swallowing due to issues with structural differences & less muscle control in the mouth - dental will often be a huge issue. All different types off orthopedic care. Specially made clothes.. and so on.. People with downs may have one or none off the issues, some have them all. It's so extremely different for every individual. And all care should be built from that individual as a whole. and some people just can't afford or do it for other reasons. Yes it's sad, but that's our reality & we can't just ignore it..

[@ingridakerblom7577]

​@@graceanderson7933unless you have been there yourself. You don't know what it means..

[@graceanderson7933]

@ingridakerblom7577 I don't have any children (yet), but I have been a disabled child. I think disabled children deserve loving, selfless parents like any other child. And besides, the truth of the matter is that anyone can become disabled at any time. Accidents, debilitating injuries, sudden illness are things that can happen to anyone. What if your healthy "normal" child contracts a traumatic brain injury that causes them to lose most of their mental functions? Would you still love them, or would you throw them away like trash because they're "too much work?" Disabled children deserve better.

[@Billeimausi]

Having a child is solely parents'decision. Raising and caring for a special child is tough. Can't sugar coat that.

[@evenstephens80085]

And then they turn into a special needs adult that will still need the care of their parents

[@carolinpurayidom4570]

But once the child is concieved it is already there they already have a child

[@evenstephens80085]

@@carolinpurayidom4570 agreed. however if there is an option which this doc showed plenty of families knowing beforehand, then go for the most humane way

[@RachelDarleneGilliland]

Souls with Down Syndrome are gifts that teach/remind us of what is most important in life.. Simplicity..enthusiasm..LOVE. Tough for us to care for? How about tough for them to 'care' for us. "People think I have something missing.. I have something more" 💞☺️🙌🏻

[@petlover0231]

But they should know that it is possible for someone with down syndrome to have a good life so they can make an informed decision. Doctors should give parents all the information and not make them feel like abortion is the only option

[@evillttlimp]

This is a complicated issue but I'm going to put it like this: "Hey, that fetus is going to have a disability, you HAVE to abort, sorry" and "Hey, I know you were going to abort but that fetus is going to have a disability so now you HAVE to carry it to term" are both morally wrong. It should always be the woman's choice. Always.

[@yomomma9256]

yes

[@seanmcmullen4274]

100% agree

[@jazmincordeiro]

As long as she doesn't abort only because of that.

[@derkchurk5879]

And it's the man's choice too, because the kid is half of him too, y'all say my body my choice, well for a man, it's my sperm my choice, my money my choice.

[@LouiesLog]

@@derkchurk5879 yes judge judy agrees

[@gisellephilbin8480]

I'd not choose to terminate, but I would be terrified of whom would provide the care and love the child would need after I have passed on.

[@jadedmonk7001]

Same here💖

[@yLaQueso0]

That’s another valid concern there’s no guarantee if both parents pass if the child receive the same love and care? I would hope so but who’s to say

[@debharshaw1882]

I am a mother with a special needs adult son 41 years. Had always been home. My son was born in 1980. We have come a long way since then. But still have a lot of room for improvement. The doctor at time said he would not learn to eat on own,get dressed, walk. Little did they know at time. Yes, it is a worry, who will take care of him, after one passes. Since as his mother I'm on my 68 year. But I have a daughter has step up to take him when I pass. I very fortunate to have that back up. I know some do not. Only have faith things will work out for best. Would be lonely without him. All my ❤️ with people in this position.!

[@jadedmonk7001]

@@debharshaw1882 Sending💖

[@aussiejubes]

That's one of the biggest stressors for parents. Succession planning is often overlooked and the disabled adult child is very often under-prepared.

[@laneatkinson6441]

"Women should have the right to bodily autonomy" and "people with disabilities have inherent worth as human beings" are not mutually exclusive ideas. Both, we can have both.

[@jazmincordeiro]

Yes, there are valid reasons for having an abortion but eugenics is not one of them.

[@feeltheillinois]

@@jazmincordeiro wanting a healthy child is not eugenic

[@heaven7459]

@@feeltheillinois down syndrome does not equate unhealthy child.

[@laneatkinson6441]

@@heaven7459 How so?

[@heaven7459]

@@laneatkinson6441 because there is nothing wrong with having down syndrome, they are absolutely wonderful people who can do amazing things when given the chance. You should look up all the achievements of people with down syndrome and other development disabilities.

[@redwoodc-3025]

On 11.03.2012 our little girl Hope was born. She had down syndrome and other health issues. She fought hard but died on 11.11.2012. We miss her terribly and always wonder how exceptional of a human she would be if she were still alive.

[@mlafou]

I am so sorry for your loss. From some else in this club, we never asked to be in.

[@charmainesmith5623]

I. So sorry for your families loss of hope

[@marialosadavazquez1151]

Siento muchísimo tu pérdida. Te mando un abrazo.😢❤

[@dianavalle3877]

So sorry for the loss of your precious daughter!! RIP!!

[@aussiejubes]

This documentary has no nuance. I've been a disability support worker for six years & the decision to get one of these tests & perhaps abort is a decision that a single person will make based on about 50 variables. It's also about the parents, it's (sorry to put it bluntly) not just about the foetus. Until society had enough systems in place which will lovingly raise unwanted disabled children, or children whose parents couldn't look after them, not all lives are worth living let me tell you. Being a 43 year old man in poverty with down syndrome who's parents have passed away and you're forced into a communal residence where you get 100 different support workers coming through every year & you're on antidepressants and have stopped talking because there's no point...it's a hard and heartbreaking life. This doco is so very one-sided and it's an important side, but not the only important side. All the people in this doco are privileged & talking from a privileged perspective.

[@MC-qt9tq]

Agree 100%

[@JaimeMesChiens]

Agree, also.

[@livnletlivmak8503]

This breaks my heart. God bless. ❤️

[@freddyroosevelt]

This. Very one-sided and privileged.

[@OpticalArxenal]

I would abort, yes. I have autism, and that was seemingly already too much for my parents to handle, and I'm still dealing with the consequences I had to suffer, zero fault of my own. Fact is, not everyone can and would care for a severely disabled, and thus demanding, child. It is not evil that the parent/s choose to abort, and it is not the fault of the child, should it be born, that they have that condition. Everyone deserves to be loved and cared for, but it is a bigger mercy, I think, to abort a severely handicapped fetus, if it is caught in time for abortion. I have the mental faculties to process my condition, the issues that it gives me, just in terms of living life with some normalcy, and on top of that handle all the trauma that was inflicted. I mean absolutely no offense when I say that I don't think most downs people can fully comprehends such things, and they therefore require *a lot* of care and resources from other people to live their happy lives, especially when they're children. Every born child deserves happiness and love, if they cannot have that, I think it better they not be born. Downs children just need that much more. It's the pregnant woman (or person with a uterus) who has the sovereign choice if she wishes to abort or assume care of such a child. Nobody elses.

[@skeshavarz60]

OpticalArxenal, I am on Autism spectrum too and I had a very hard life and I was bullied mercilessly my whole life! I always think if my mother would have aborted me, I wouldn't have to go through such suffering and misery which made my life more like a nightmare!

[@adrian2010878]

I have a neice with downs syndrome I never thought in a million years I would ever be able to care for a child with so many needs I respect and admire my sister more than she will ever know for all she has to do my first child is what people call normal my second was born with autism that's not something I was prepared for or something I thought I could handle but I love my son and I will do whatever it takes to make sure he gets all the help he needs and advance him as far as I possibly can before I am gone I cannot see the future and don't know how long I will be around but that's a fear I have for both of my children no parent wants to leave their child before they are ready no matter their condition I will never judge someone for making such a difficult and personal decision and there is no way for me to know everything my son is feeling or going through but as long as I breathe I will do absolutely everything I can for him no matter what that means and I know not everyone is prepared to do that but just know that I was one of the people that never thought I would be able to do half of the things I've done for my son

[@wanderlust1229]

@@skeshavarz60 society needs to be better, so many people that are different say the worst part is how others treat them. So really what makes your life bad, the condition, or other people's ignorance? You didnt deserve to be treated poorly.

[@maileevyne5000]

My older brother has autism. I would say yes he suffered. My parents are migrants who moved to the US. They weren't educated but that isn't an excuse for the parents they needed to be which they weren't. If he had the right support, he would be ok. But hence, they couldn't even be standard parents. Too much kids, etc. So much factors. I feel bad for the life he has lived. I grew up not liking him because of his violent outbursts. No one truly cared for him. In the end, it is what it is. Having to accept everything. And try I guess. 😓

[@OpticalArxenal]

@@maileevyne5000 Mind you, I'm at a point now where I would prefer to live (there have been points where I didn't), but I can only say that because I can consider all of these things, which a fetus can't. I only wish people would consider more carefully that having kids isn't just a thing you do. Have to raise them well and care for their needs, and sometimes their needs are way above available means, or means they aren't willing to afford. I'm sorry to hear about your brother, truly.

[@xXN0SK1LLZXx]

I feel no malice against people who abort a child knowing that they aren’t ready to look after a child with some form of mental or physical Illness. Because some people aren’t. But me personally I would never do that. Even more so after this beautiful doc

[@laneatkinson6441]

I agree with you. I don't think I could handle having children, whether disabled or not. I think it's a hard decision for anyone to make, I can't imagine what it's like.

[@jazmincordeiro]

If you can't handle that then is better not having children at all.

[@ii-kk3ke]

@@jazmincordeiro yeah thats….why they get an abortion….

[@christinafidance340]

I feel the same. I couldn’t do it, personally, as I am against abortion for myself, unless either my life is at stake, I’ve been raped (maybe… I’m not sure how I’d feel in that situation) or the child will be horribly deformed in a manner that will seriously reduce their quality of life. However, I am absolutely pro-choice for everyone else since it’s their body & family and not mine to dictate. I also just don’t see much good out of forcing people to birth children that they clearly do not want for whatever reason, as I don’t see how that is in the child’s best interest ultimately. I know I would want my parents to WANT me!

[@liberty3928]

Abortion is MURDER under all circumstances.

[@missdragonplays]

I love this documentary. My oldest brother has Down Syndrome, and is smart, funny, sweet, and silly….and I couldn’t imagine life without him in it. ❤️🥰

[@justinpullin98]

Justin Pullin Melissa Oiler Mike Oiler Danielle Pullin Luis Luciano Misty Brown Scott Brown Megan Ellis Mike Ellis Michelle Oiler Kevin story

[@roycemurray6444]

I worked with the mentally challenged for over 50 years. What beautiful souls they have. Thanks for posting this. It was like going to a family reunion.

[@DemonratsRevil]

Life is full of tough choices and harsh, downright cruel realities. The reality is that most people with Down syndrome are not self sufficient and it isn’t a blessing. To say so is beyond patronizing. It’s cruel.

[@madiashute8837]

Don’t be ridiculous most people with DS live a fulfilled life with jobs and independence 😡.

[@Hoss_Delgado977]

@@madiashute8837 In blissful ignorance of how they may be told they're in a certain role but are given basic tasks as opposed to their colleagues and of how much they've cost both loved ones and ones they've worked for (in both time and money) throughout the years. It just can get certain workplaces government grants to hire special needs and I'm sure some others do it out of sheer pity.

[@cheryllaguardia931]

​@@madiashute8837 You are woefully misinformed. Most? A few, at best.

[@xhiddenkittenx]

My good friend Molly has Ds. This father is so so so right about their emotional superiority. One time I was SILENTLY crying in the other room. Molly had loud music playing there is no way she heard me. She knew, intuitively even in a 6th sense sort of way that something was wrong and came bursting into the room to hug and console me.

[@tysonderycke2420]

CAAAAAAAP 😂

[@azillliasmith2734]

And yet some downs can be oblivious to other peoples feelings and difficulties not realising their elderly parents cannot look after them easily anymore and are struggling.....

[@jaimeoneill9196]

I’m so glad I watch this documentary, what a beautiful and respectful way to show love for people with down syndrome. I have the upmost respect and gratitude to the families who shared their lives in this story! I found this the most beautiful , enlightening and positive story which touch my heart and I will never forget watching it! Thank you for making this, I’m In ore of each and every one of you! ❤️🙏🤩

[@iamcornholiooooo3019]

Do you have DS?

[@DeeDaButterfly]

I have a sister with down syndrome. I have been taking care of her on my own for about 6 years. I have 7 other sisters who "check-in" every once in a while. It does get overwhelming sometimes but it's all worth it. I just chose to be content in every circumstance. Im trying my best all the while I also have 2 kids of my own. A 16-year-old and a 7-year-old. My sister is 34 and im 37 so we are a little close in age. I postpone going to school. I just want her to be comfortable and have a fulfilling life.💛💛

[@stayce751]

Wow😢 you are wonderful. What a beautiful and selfless person you are. ♥️

[@cottoncandy4486]

The young man in the yellow shirt blew me away. So articulate, so smart.I have so much respect for that young man.

[@Kao96..]

growing up with having my mom's sister suffering from the same condition it's amazing for me to see these people with down syndrome living their lives almost normally... she's now 50y old and can only say a few words and completely depends on the care of those around her.. she can't walk properly, she can't go to toilet on her own and can only say a specific single words when she needs something... seeing these people really opens up my eyes as to how sad her life actually is and how far she could have gone if only she received the proper care...

[@madiashute8837]

You don’t suffer from Downs Syndrome you just happen to have it. My gorgeous boy has DS and he has never suffered. He is absolute joy and we would have it no other way x

[@drewmatthew3]

That's exactly how I feel too about my first cousin who has down syndrome. She sometimes has outbursts and has expressed she's and her parents keep her home alone all day while they go to work. She's now 30 and I know she's miserable. She can work and live a productive life if her parents gave her proper care.

[@JaimeMesChiens]

♥️It’s not too late♥️

[@iamcornholiooooo3019]

I do believe that she could have done better with the right support, but there are people with Down Syndrome with the most amazing support that you can think of who never go on to do certain things, like talking. It's just the nature of the condition

[@americandevo]

Do not feel badly and believe that your sister was some how failed by your parents, doctors or educational system. If you research down syndrome you will learn the truth that this condition comes with a varying level of delay. People born with down's syndrome can have slight, moderate or severe delay and medical issues. Not every person born with down's syndrome is able to live, learn and enjoy a "normal" life.

[@willielandrum3359]

That was such a beautiful story. It brought tears of sadness and joy. We have to learn to see beyond what we see and always look for potential in what we perceived to be different. They are the most loving individual. Please continue to make videos like this one. Thank you so much.

[@andrewhyde3146]

Very interesting and informative documentary. There's a lesson there, which is see the ability rather than the disability.

[@Zoe-dr5ps]

Me and my husband wanted another baby. I'm 40. I knew if the child had downs syndrome i couldn't abort. I also knew i wouldn't want to put the burden of his/her care on my other daughters shoulders after we've passed away. In the end we chose to not have anymore children. Which is a choice I'm now very happy with.

[@Suplys]

Great documentary! I never been brought to tears like i was with Shoko about her father 😢 He would be so proud! All of these people are so inspiring ❤

[@tandysaysyoucandoanything6758]

Parents should not be forced to care for a child they don’t feel comfortable caring for. All children including those with Down syndrome should be born to parents that love them no matter what. Making people have children they don’t want, will result in the child be unwanted and unloved. I rather adopt a special needs child than have one. That way I could prepare myself for the challenges ahead without any thing being a surprise or another financial burden. Like hats off to all the parents who kept their pregnancies but others who can’t or didn’t, they shouldn’t be judged due to their individual circumstances. It’s very insensitive and lacks any empathetic perspective.

[@Witchezcat]

Omg Frank Stephens is just staggeringly brilliant ! What a wonderful spokesperson for disability, not simply for Downs, but for all people everywhere who are challenged by the worlds perception of those of us who are a little bit “special” 💜💜💜

[@dawnhopkins3085]

these children are so amazing ... did the older doctors not even bother to even talk to them to see how bright they were before they decided they were no good??!

[@debharshaw1882]

I am a senior citizen of 68 years, and have a son that has Autism, with some behavioral problems. That was born in 1980. Has always been home with me. This u-tube hits home on so many levels. Yes, life has had it up and downs. He has taught me more than, me him. Yes, you go thur a head trip at first, what did I do differently, when I was pregnant with other children? I had a friend, tell me this: he has the same ABC BLOCK'S as very body else, just arranged differently. Will never forget this it made all the differences, between getting over the guilt trip. It would be very lonely, without him, and keeps me going, to keep moving as long as I can. My advice, when measuring achievements, of special needs children, be prepared it to take years not months sometimes. Be patient. All my love 💓 to person in this situation, or will be in future.

[@alissahhodges5854]

My daughter has cerebellar hyperplasia. At 24 weeks we were told horrific things. Some true but most just terrorizing speculation by the professionals. We were pushed to abort and when we didn't they had 24 people in the room during delivery acting like we were birthing a tragedy. ( or that's how i felt) she came out gorgeous! She is an unbelievable gift and though she cant walk well at three she fights hard stumbling around with so much spirit and sass! Before her birth i couldn't even find children with the condition on the internet and most doctors just played guessing games. I wish i would have known how perfect she'd be for all of us. What a light she is especially because things are so simple with her. Happy is happy and mad is mad and love is her everything! Though kali has a different condition there's lots of similarities and every life has meaning! So so grateful i was brave enough to know she was a gift from God No matter what a brain scan says!💪🙌❤

[@Giancarlo_1997]

♥️♥️ I don’t know you but I’m very proud you made that choice every child is a Gift from God and all regardless of what condition they may have should never be aborted/killed we are toLove them just as they are and trust God and the Lord to guide us through it all for the Christian that believe tho if not then to just not abort and still pray 🙏🏼 cause we can do nothing apart from God and Jesus Christ! You are Loved Alissah

[@gayeinggs5179]

Only problem is that they can’t get a well paying job !

[@ianwimbles1440]

I have to say I used to work with downs ranging in age from babies to young adults.and I want to say best job I’ve ever done amazing people so brilliant,kind,gentle,I think that they are what we are all meant to be in the character aspect?they are so full of love that I for one say that they should stop the testing for downs for them being born with it should not be a reason for termination!they are more human than you and me!amazing documentary and about time people are educated about downs!here’s too all the amazing kids I’ve had the privilege to meet and know!thankyou you beautiful people!

[@drewmatthew3]

My first cousin has down syndrome and she is loving and kind. She told me she's unhappy because she wants to be treated like an adult. She longs to get married, have kids, and live independently. Unfortunately, her parents make her stay home alone all day and she is lonely. It seemed like she was so happy until she graduated from high school. I feel so bad for her sometimes because she wants to do so much more, but can't becuase of her over protective parents. I honestly think she would like living in a group home with others like her instead of staying home all day alone :/.

[@blossom1643]

That’s sad but be honest. If she’s truly an adult, what’s keeping her from Leaving her parents home??

[@Lovereignsupreme]

I love the story of the little boy at the cross walk ❤️ gorgeous Frank, you are a legend 💪🏻 Shoko works very hard for her mother's love. When her mother said she prayed for her disability to go away ,Shoko hung her head in shame🥺 How pitiful she made her feel,mean. "Some people think I have something missing,they're wrong, I have something more". -India Russell 😲 , Powerful! Clincher:it's not the kids,it's the parents.

[@Luca-gc6pz]

And there's the "abortion bad" part of the video

[@Out_on_a_Limb_Life]

Thank you for this beautiful documentary. These young people are a gift to us all.

[@julieolsen7869]

Who looks after the disabled when parents die ?

[@zoecellis88]

I was offered the test when pregnant with my two but I told them it didn’t matter wether my child would have Down syndrome because I would love them and be the best mum I can regardless. My two daughters didn’t have downs. But I wouldn’t of loved them any less if they had. I’ve worked with young adults with down syndrome nearly all of my adult life. And they bring so much joy to your day

[@hockmengvincentchan4569]

My DS daughter is 18 this year. I was a single parent till recently.

[@richinderbyshire4779]

Bless you. Youve done a fantastic job.

[@hadrianswall3902]

Hope you support your child with your own money

[@ElvenSailor_Main]

I believe it's totally valid if someone wants to terminate the pregnancy. I maybe would. A child is a LOT to care for, changes your life and costs a lot. But a disabled child it could be even more expensive, stressful, hard, etc. If someone can't handle that I would hope they terminate rather than carry and then the child lives a life without enough love, medical care, and support. I wouldn't be able to handle it emotionally and mentally. I don't even know if I could handle a healthy child. It's too much of a risk and it would be unfair to the child to force them into that environment. Every child deserves a family that fully wants them, can fully care and love them. I also believe abortion should be readily available for any reason under any circumstances without questions for why. It's a huge decision to have a child.

[@graceanderson7933]

I would never abortion a baby because they have a disability but I guess I'm just a better person than you are

[@mysurfing3550]

​@@graceanderson7933 How does that make you a better person? There is no consciousness in a fetus until the 6th month of pregnancy, long past the time most abortions are legal anyway. If God exists, he should wait to assign a soul until he knows someone will be born, so it would be kindest to abort so they have a chance to be born healthy and into a loving home. If God doesn't exist, then forcing people to have kids they don't want is extremely pointless. You are not a better person, you are just convinced of an idea. It doesn't make you better to bear children you don't want or can't take care of and no one will give you an award.

[@martinespinoza9763]

My tio,or uncle Ruben, was down syndrome and I knew others, and of course they are slower, but so loving, caring, forgiving, and smart, able to function,I can go on, I wish I had a job, being surrounded by them and I mean that, makes you appreciate things and life so much more, God bless every one of them, in JESUS name Amen 🙏

[@dianeandrzejak2221]

I honestly feel that people with down syndrome could teach a lot of people a lot of the MORE important things in life! I was out one night drinking & I wanted to dance, I saw a young man tapping his leg & that was MY cue that he was ready to dance & having liquid courage, I went over & asked him to dance with me! So he had down syndrome, what really warmed my heart & made me feel good was a couple years later or so, I ran into him at a restaurant & he remembered me & didn't roll his eyes or try to avoid me because I was drunk & no doubt making a fool of myself! It's a moment that I won't forget because it made me feel so special! People are so lucky to have a person with down syndrome that they can learn from! I don't think that they should have a test for people to choose! God is the ONLY one who has that choice!

[@JaimeMesChiens]

@MartinEspinoza , are you able to work with Down syndrome, or other adults with learning disabilities? From entry level personal care attendants, all the way to MDs and PhDs, there is always a place for those gifted in patience and kindness. Please comment, if you see this. I’d like to encourage to follow you heart, and I’ll be your cheerleader. (edited for auto correct saying “personal core attendant,” rather than “personal CARE attendant)

[@calcleg4121]

A most positive and uplifting documentary. That was inspiring to watch. ThAnkh you for sharing. x

[@dianeandrzejak2221]

The one little girl knows 3 languages! English, Spanish, & Sign! Definitely smarter than I am!! & I can't even draw a decent stick man!

[@cathy1944]

Such a beautiful and enlightening program. Thank you so much for this.

[@barbarama]

Beautiful documentary. Mr Stephens is such an inspiring speaker. 🌷

[@melissanielsen7700]

My best friends older brother Bubba (Josh) had downs and I'm thankful everyday that I got to be in his life, especially as a teenager. They have SO MUCH LOVE TO GIVE AND HAVE THE BIGGEST HEARTS YOU COULD EVEN IMAGINE!! sadly he passed away last year. But I know I've thing, he was LOVED by EVERYONE!!

[@catsnotkids]

My sister was born with Down s and it was wonderful seeing this documentary. I loved her very much and she was full of beauty. Thanks for this xx

[@americandevo]

The Governor of our state tried to pass a bill making it illegal to abort a fetus that was proven to have a disability. Of course it was denied as being unconstitutional and rightfully so. I can't fathom a country that would allow legal abortions "on demand" including the third trimester for healthy babies but make aborting a fetus with confirmed disabilities a crime. I have known a few people who's child had down's syndrome. One was a fine and accomplished young man, one was very low functioning and when he become too much for his parents to handle he went to live in a group home. Most recently a friend's daughter had a baby with down's syndrome accompanied by many other defects which are common with down's. Matea lived for 8 months and never left the hospital. Deciding to terminate a pregnancy based on medical conditions should be the parent's choice and no one else's. People want to believe that every baby born with down's syndrome will be healthy and grow up to be the happy guy who bags groceries at the supermarket but very often that is not the case. This documentary fails to show the other side - when the level of delay is severe and the person with a very low level of functioning does not have a good or even decent quality of life. No one should be forced to take a gamble on their and their child's life.

[@gayeinggs5179]

There are different. Downs Some are more intelligent than others my friend has a daughter but she has never learnt to. Read

[@raya9283]

The intro alone is so powerful! Great documentary.

[@charmainesmith5623]

I was a healthy baby I did not start having health problems till I was in my early 20s. I have carers. We never know what's around the corner

[@samaranightshade4077]

My 7 month old grandson has down syndrome but he is the sweetest funniest little boy. When my daughter found out that her baby had down syndrome she was not sure what to do. The midwife and nurses right away started trying to talk my daughter into getting an abortion. At 6 months. My daughter and son in law were not sure what quality of life the baby would have. I started bombarding them with everything I could find about children with down syndrome. Today my daughter calls my grandson her homie with an extra chromie. I'm relieved that she didn't listen to those people who should have tried to help educate her.

[@charmainesmith5623]

Congratulations on becoming a grandparent

[@samaranightshade4077]

@@charmainesmith5623 Thank you! I'm so thrilled. I get to go to California for his birthday. :-)

[@ellebee42]

I admire the parents and educators who support these special humans. Having spent a year working with mentally challenged individuals (it almost killed me, by the way), I can attest that this special calling to love and patient nurturing is not for everyone. There is no black or white solution. People should have the choice to have genetic testing done, then do some SERIOUS soul searching as to whether they have the mental, emotional, and financial capacity to give this person the life they deserve, because it’ll be their responsibility, when the rest of the village is asleep, or taking care of their own children, when they themselves are sick. That copious responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of others in the family once the parents have passed. Being 36, with no partner or children, I find this a terrifying prospect, and I don’t know where my decision would lay were I confronted with it. But I and everyone else SHOULD have the right to decide.

[@maidenengland2]

Why don’t people get the test done when pregnant

[@edwright480]

I worked with DS young people (Social Worker) and I loved every moment of it. So much so I fostered many of them. Good luck to you all, and your very special children.

[@CarolMoore-yv6ec]

from what i can see they are intelligent as the rest they learn in a different way love them

[@vix_xie]

"... a Down's is not a person." - for someone who's purportedly intellectual, that sure was a DUMB statement

[@hadrianswall3902]

Down means easy life for parents as carers

[@R.E._Peony]

Hitler said the same thing about the Jews. And the slave holders said the same thing about blacks.

[@MissIncorrigibleOfOz]

The chopping skills at 41:53 are much better than most people I know!

[@trisann345]

Such an amazing headmaster ❤️💕 wish every country had more headmasters like him in schools ❤️

[@Astrow_Customs]

Doctors said my son would never walk or talk and may not eat and breathe on his own. Even at 24 weeks when they found out he had the syndrome he has they recommended aborting him. Y’all, my son is 2 and he’s LITERALLY perfect. Even more advanced in speech than my other kids were at his age and he walks, runs, jumps, flips. He’s a normal 2 year old boy besides a shunt in his brain. I’m pregnant again and I chose to get all the prenatal and genetic testing they offered. not to abort if something is wrong, but to be mentally and monetarily ready if the baby were to have a disability.

[@hadrianswall3902]

Yes to be ready for some money from the taxpayer in case your child is disabled

[@si215]

I totally get it. That prenatal screening to give the option to a pregnant women to abort the pregnancy would be offensive to those living with down syndrome. To feel like your condition is unwanted in society, that you are not wanted in society. However, many people with Down syndrome are unable to live independent lives and needs a significant amount of attention/assistance that some people just dont want. I think the screenings are okay if it only gives a person the choice to perform a lawful abortion. Not everyone who has a prenatal screening will abort the pregnancy, nor will every woman opt to get a screening. So the screening is a better way for women to who want the choice, to have the choice. I am pro choice.

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

It is a tricky topic but a line has to be drawn still. I am in favor of making the lives of people with disability as comfortable and happy as possible and every life must be supported once it is born but I am not in favor of not preventing births with genetic disorders. You cannot knowingly decide that the child lives his entire life with disability. So, I advocate that every parent should have a choice. If someone is willing to take the risk and is strong enough to give a good life to a child with disability, they should be allowed to bring the child in the world. And those who feel otherwise, should be allowed to terminate the child.

[@norrieblackeby1041]

What beautiful stories! Thank you.

[@TheElizabethashby]

WELL SAID FRANK STEPHENS

[@michellemako6634]

In reading some of the comments I do understand that everyone has a right to make their own decisions. But.....as a Mother, I have enjoyed every birth of my children and enjoy everything that each of them have to offer this world ❤️

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

Marcus Gunn, the Headmaster; is a great man. Truly truly great man. Not many people are capable of doing what he has done. A deeply compassionate and courageous man. ❤️❤️❤️🔥❤️❤️❤️

[@Dogwithoutaname]

I'm disabled, yet I still have internalized ableism. I grew up thinking that disabled meant those people's life's would be sad or bad. Then I had a cousin who was born disabled, she's wonderful and courageous and intelligent and the light of the room. I love her and I'd never tell my aunt to not love her, or treat her differently ever. And then when I became disabled physically and started using a cane and wheelchair this year at 24 years old I had another mental shift. I realised what I had been taught growing up about disabled people by my parents,peers,society and media. Their lives are worth living.

[@anagomezgutierrez3461]

Dad: So many positive things about Down.. Mentions 2 lame reasons, cant even come up with a third 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@dudewithattitude429]

Sometimes abortion is the solution

[@shoshieboo]

Thank you so much for this documentary. I enjoyed watching it very much, and it was a good learning opportunity.

[@ManishKumar-sr8zh]

This is one of the most moving documentaries that I have watched in my life. I experience something that I had not experienced before.

[@baalaagaa]

But can they count to potato?

[@marshaclark1398]

She is a beautiful child with so much potential

[@finolaDerwin-br2fl]

My dad didn't want me because l had mld

[@nikkibaby1406]

What a Wonderful film.

[@nikkid7963]

What an amazing family! 💕God bless them all.

[@justjonni9330]

This doc was so amazingly put together and was really sad 😔 when it was at the end! Yes… Our past society's remedies for any & everything different was to hide it, just lock it away. (Out of sight meant out mind ) So grateful that awareness now is unlocking the knowledge by knowing: all lives are meant to be different, and worthy of a life!

[@destinodk]

humaintys quirks is a wonderful thing.. love to see people embrace it instead of discouraging it. some of the most genearous heartwarming people may not have been born because of selective dna testing. i would love to meet all these people more than almost every streamer, influencer these days

[@celestialcircledance]

It may be great to meet them but being willing to raise them and pay for there special needs is a whole different level of commitment . A lot of unwilling parents would likely turn them over to the state if not given the option to abort which would also be preferable in my mind to harboring resentment and not being all in .

[@janejjszutu2584]

Happy st. Patrick Day and good luck today and wish you the best. You got this and enjoy your day with luck and happiness you guys deserve it 💚💚💚

[@onlyme219]

Tiddly-dee

[@andrewmiller3228]

I used to work in a club and we celebrated st peters day, which involved spending a day with downs. people with downs are the most beautiful, friendliest, gentliest, people in the world.

[@annelommers174]

the words that had been said by Joseph have thrown me off my feet for a moment, a child with down is not a human being! like wtf, when it has everything like 10 fingers and 10 toes and breathes is a human! I learned to call it up syndrome, they lift you up and try to make you happy

[@marshaclark1398]

They are so sweet and amazing

[@boughtnpaidfer]

Beautiful program. The world needs more love.

[@toribern816]

Never thought about Downs ppl being superior but I absolutely love that idea! All love, no war no murder no rape. It makes sense. Much love and respect to all these kids and their parents 💯❤️

[@tysonderycke2420]

Seriously this is a thing. Could you imagine people with polio being like I’m scared my community is going to disappear because of this possible cure. Like come on. Now children have a better go at life. Yes people with Down’s syndrome (that’s how you spell it if you really cared) are special and admittedly they have a harder life they need extra help. Now we can take that risk away and have children living happy pain and stress free lives. This would be like if someone with CP was complaining their community was disappearing because we finally had genetic testing to eliminate those genes that cause CP. I’m almost positive they would be extatic that another child wouldn’t have to experience their life and their struggles. And the pain they had to endure. STOP VIRTUE SIGNALING.

[@snakebitepellehue]

I hate to tell you this, but Down's syndrome cannot be erradicated without erradicating those who have it. You cannot get rid of the extra chromosome.

[@lynnmoon1596]

Beautiful

[@zannejae196]

This was touching and helped me have a better understanding of DS.

[@bea3685]

Great documentary. I hope children with other syndromes than Down, with the same capability, abilities and happiness can also join regularly schools.

[@iaderpatino1337]

BEAUTIFUL HISTORY THANKS REAL HISTORY I LOVED

[@homelesspilgrim]

Fascinating documentary. I have heard of down syndrome and seen a few people who were born with it but I never really understood anything about it. It's heart warming to hear how some people with downs, are even able to live on their own. May God bless them in Jesus' Holy name

[@TheElizabethashby]

LOVELY THANK YOU

[@helenlogan6481]

Brilliant documentary

[@four4eyes]

Thank you 💗 for this, simplicity is the most beautiful and sincere form .... sincerity is the most simple and beautiful form... beauty is the most sincere and simple form.....to express our love .

[@tammyraee6042]

What a beautiful family!!

[@luvghd]

I am pro-life but think that tests should be available. You are not using children as products, I was raped and gave birth to a boy, if he had Down syndrome I even after a test I would have kept him.

[@kimsherlock8969]

Wonderful documentary

[@Bent666]

People with DS are basically the human version of Golden Retrievers! They’re innocent and lovingly, and that’s it! The reason why families call them “blessings” is because they stay in a state of forever innocents, but at an incredible cost emotionally, time, and financial.

[@nikjonestravel]

i love this!

[@heatherbowlan1961]

That father superior being , love that , not capable of hate , raises , could never want to hurt anyone , their a true gift from our Lord !

[@lq8470]

One of my best friends didn't find out till her daughter was born that she had not only downs but leukemia she beat cancers buttt!!! Strongest little girl I nooo she is 4 now and I'm so blessed to be part of her life!!! She brings a smile to anyone having a rough day face and she is just the happiest kiddo on the planet! Downs doesn't put her down one bit and we are all blessed to have her in our life 💜