Carlo’s Birth Story

Carlo’s Birth Story
As Told By Mom, Janeen

My son was born 2 weeks early via c-section. I had him scheduled a week later, so we were pretty surprised when we went to the hospital the night of the 5th. My previous c- section was rough and I was pretty much asleep, so I wasn’t sure what to expect this time around. I remember feeling the pressure release, but not hearing a baby cry like I thought I should. Carlo was born not breathing and blue.  He was also born with pulmonary hypertension, dangerously low blood sugar, Atrial Septal Defect and Ventricular Septal Defect, Jaundice and failed a few hearing tests. Prior to May 6, 2015, I had no idea what any of that was, except jaundice. I had a fantastic pregnancy, I could not believe this was happening to me, to us, to him. Words could not describe the feelings I had the next several days.

As weeks went by filled with doctor appointments, clinic visits and early intervention evaluations life began to settle in. Now at almost 18 months old the problems of birth have pretty much gone away. The worry and anxiety of a new special needs mom have disappeared. This is life and really it’s nothing different. Prior to his birth myself and most of my friends and some family were not familiar with Down syndrome. In the last 18 months every single one of our friends and family has been nothing but supportive and loving to Carlo. He has helped us all see Down Syndrome as normal.  Carlo is like any other 18 month old boy, curious, active and full of energy. I see similarities in him to other children his age before I see any difference- the difference is so minor! I am sure Carlo will continue to educate and change views of all who come into contact with him, how could he not with that