1.  GET A SECOND OPINION.  It is not uncommon for doctors to lean toward painting horrible pictures of what your life is going to be like, but these doctors are not actual parents of a child with Down syndrome. They may tell you about other conditions which may be too much for you to hear and guide you towards making a decision to terminate. Get a second opinion!!

Delaney’s Perinatal Specialist told the Ott-Dahls that Delaney had a deadly condition called Cystic Hygroma and would pass away anyway.  Luckily, the Ott-Dahl’s spoke with a Down syndrome Specialist and found out that it was highly unlikely Delaney had the Cystic Hygroma. Delaney in fact never had Cystic Hygroma.

2.  Visit our Resources page for information on Down syndrome supports groups, social media, Facebook, blogs, and Youtube links.

Months before Delaney was born, Keston had her applications in and approved for three therapies (Occupational, Physical and an Infant Developmental Specialist) with their local Regional Center which support persons with developmental disabilities and their families with the tools needed to achieve lives of quality and satisfaction, and builds partnerships that result in inclusive communities. There is financial help available. 

Our local Down syndrome Connection also provides Delaney with access to a Music, Feeding and Speech Therapist free of charge. ASK ASK ASK!

Your local Down syndrome organization should be able to give you phone numbers to get the ball rolling even before your baby is born or we can help. Email us and we will help you find sources that can give your baby a head start.

DISCLAIMER:  Always consult a medical practitioner. We are in no way giving professional medical advice. We are simply sharing Delaney’s story.

After spending countless hours online researching Down syndrome, Andrea came across an article in the Cornell Chronicle, “More choline for mom decreases Down syndrome effects.” Andrea immediately started a daily regimen of choline, DHA and Omega’s while she was pregnant.

Later Andrea became a member of the Trisomy 21 Nutrition and Supplementation Group on Facebook for parents who are interested in using supplements, nutritional interventions and other innovative therapies to prevent and treat the symptoms of what is commonly called “Down syndrome.” The parents in this group believe that by being proactive, they can improve the cognition, speech, memory, behavior and health of their children, helping them surpass traditional expectations.

Delaney is raised by a village!  She has champions behind her encouraging her every day, including her almost 3,000 loyal Facebook followers at https://www.facebook.com/delaneyskyeottdahl where you can watch Delaney grow up, see her videos and her photos as she achieves her goals!.

We believe that because she has so much support, encouragement and accountability that she steps up to see us smile, to get kisses and hugs.  Delaney absolutely lights up when she people smile and clap for her.