RubyRae is our ‘Rae of Sunshine’. We had an after birth diagnosis of Down Syndrome and to say it came as a shock would be an understatement. It completely tore me apart. I went through so many emotions the first 48 hours after she was born. But here she is, 3 months into this thing called life. She is amazing, a cuddle bug, and extra special.

Her big brother, Eli, and her have such a special bond already. He loves to kiss her and give her a hug by squeezing her cheeks. I cannot wait to see the two of them grow up and watch their friendship and bond grow.

While we have not had to face any other medical issues to date, I know that if we do, we will be OK. She is stronger than I am and I am learning that I am stronger than I thought I ever was. To any parents that has just received a Down Syndrome diagnosis just know that it’s ok. It’s ok to feel raw, or even numb at first, as those are sometimes typical feelings after a diagnosis of any kind is given, but find a friend, family member or even me* to talk about those feelings, and most of all, enjoy that new squishy baby!And most of all, enjoy that new squishy baby!