Dr. Karysse Trandem, OB/GYN & Medical Director, Save the Storks
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and at Save the Storks, we are honored to celebrate the incredible individuals and families who have loved ones with Down Syndrome. This month is a reminder to recognize the value, joy, and purpose every life holds, regardless of a diagnosis.
My Connection to Down Syndrome
This issue hits especially close to home for me, as my beautiful cousin, Kari, has Down Syndrome. She brings so much joy and love into my life.
Kari has taught me so many things about letting go of people’s perceptions and living life to the fullest! We love to sing and dance together wherever we go. We are truly kindred spirits with a wholehearted love of Jesus.
Down Syndrome and the Life-Affirming Movement
As an OB/GYN and medical director for life-affirming women’s clinics, I have seen the heartbreaking reality of how the abortion industry often encourages ending the lives of those diagnosed with Down Syndrome. This goes against my deepest conviction as a medical professional and Christian: that every life, no matter its challenges or differences, is valuable and purposeful.
Sadly, society’s view of Down Syndrome often leads to the dehumanization of these precious lives. A study by The Human Development Institute revealed that 61% of surveyed parents were told by their obstetric providers that their child’s Down Syndrome diagnosis was ‘bad news.’ This negative framing can influence parents during a vulnerable time, reinforcing the idea that their child’s life is less valuable.
The Dehumanization of Babies with Down Syndrome
Currently, prenatal screenings for Down Syndrome are common and are often presented to parents as early as 11 weeks. While these screenings can provide important information, they also come with a dangerous message: that a diagnosis of Down Syndrome is a reason to consider abortion.
In England and Wales, for example, around 90% of babies diagnosed with Down Syndrome are aborted. Organizations like Don’t Screen Us Out, composed of over 17,000 people, are actively fighting to build a society where every individual is equally valued.
The dehumanization of babies with Down Syndrome is an extension of the dehumanization within the abortion industry itself. It highlights a troubling truth: once a diagnosis gives the baby a ‘face,’ the issue becomes less abstract. But the reality is that every unborn baby—regardless of diagnosis—has intrinsic value. Discrimination in the womb shouldn’t be accepted.
Connecting with Those Who Have Down Syndrome
A powerful way to affirm that every life is God-given is to champion Down Syndrome individuals by offering a smile and talking with them freely, knowing that they are valuable children of God. I know my cousin absolutely lights up when somebody is willing to look her in the eye, talk with her directly, and offer a friendly interaction.
How You Can Support Life
Here at Save the Storks, we assist over 100 mobile medical clinics and partner pregnancy clinics to help women and families around the nation choose life and encounter the love of Jesus. We rejoice over every life God forms and recognize the absolute value of people from conception to natural death. We are all made in the image of God!
This Down Syndrome Awareness Month, join us in celebrating the unique and beautiful lives of individuals with Down Syndrome. You can make a difference by supporting our mission. Consider donating to help us continue our work, providing compassionate, life-affirming care to families nationwide. Together, we can build a culture that values every life, regardless of diagnosis.
