Victory for the Down Syndrome community

In late September of 2008, after approximately three years of advocacy, a victory occurred when the Senate and House passed a unanimous law called the Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act. This law will ensure that pregnant women who receive a positive prenatal test result and parents who receive the postnatal diagnosis will be more likely to receive up to date scientific information about life expectancy, clinical course, intellectual and functional development, and prenatal and postnatal treatment options.

Within the Act, there are provisions that offer referrals to support services such as hotlines, websites, adoption registries, and parent support networks and programs. In the past, much of the information provided was outdated and inaccurate. Many treatment options and opportunities were not provided, and there were decades-old stereotypes still persisting.

Under this new law, families and society will receive knowledge and information about individuals with Down Syndrome. This is a major victory, as it is hardly a routine occurrence with unanimous consent.

Senators Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Sam Brownback (R-KS) were the original co-sponsors of the Bill, and they led this through the Congress for the ultimate benefit of all families and their children. It is hopeful that many of the myths and stereotypes will be dismissed, and that the future for these families and people will be better served. If you need for further information please contact the National Down Syndrome Society or the National Down Syndrome Congress.


By: Hyman G. Darling, Esq.

Comments

[Donna]

It's about time!!! Thank you to all involved in accomplishing this feat.
~A Proud parent