Trisomy 18 Family Support Foundation
Trisomy 18
Trisomy 18, also known as Edward’s Syndrome, is a developmental delay caused by an extra 18th chromosome. This condition is often detected during pregnancy and can cause birth defects that are often life threatening. Edward’s Syndrome has no treatment and is usually fatal within the first year of life.
T18 is obviously a devastating diagnosis for parents to receive. Families that receive this diagnosis face financial strain, stress and anxiety, and of course grief. While there is no cure or prevention for T18, there is support thet can be given once a family receives a diagnosis and this support can be essential to their experience.
Chromosomes do not determine the value of a life
T18 FAQ’s
T18 Symptoms
Common symptoms of T18 include low birthweight, abnormal head shape, and defects in organs that are often life threatening. There is also often clenched hands, episodes of no breathing, low set ears and delays in cognitive development.
How does it happen?
Unfortunately there is no known cause for T18. As this is a condition that is present from conception on, it’s difficult to know the true cause. Partial Trisomy 18, (meaning only a part of an extra chromosome is present) can often be the result of a parent’s abnormal genetics, but full trisomy seems to be random and without cause.
What can be done?
The prognosis for Edward’s is bleak, with 90% of diagnosed children not surviving to their first birthday. The most helpful thing that can be done is supporting the families of these children so that they have the physical and emotional resources they need.
So How Can I Help?
Research and Improved Care
There is still so much to learn about Edward’s Syndrome. Each case can vary widely in symptoms and experience. One thing we can do is fund research to scientific foundations studying Trisomy 18 and provide resources for T18 families. A child with Edwards syndrome that does survive will require extra support in multiple ways and most families are not prepared to provide that support. Donations made available to these families can allow them to make their child’s life as comfortable as possible for as long as they get to enjoy it.
Grief Support
Unfortunately every T18 family must say goodbye to their little one sooner than they would like. This experience is so taxing on the parents and siblings of a T18 child. Donating to this foundation allows us to provide families with and counseling and support that can drastically change that experience for them.
You Can Be The Difference
Trisomy 18 is a devastating diagnosis to receive, but it is not without hope. There is so much that we can do to support a family walking this unknown path, and you can be the difference for one such family. When donations are made through the Trisomy 18 Family Foundation, 100% of the proceeds go directly to families in need. These funds go to providing equipment and doctors visits for T18 children, as well as providing memorial packages and grief support to family members once their journey is over. We so appreciate your help and know that it could mean the world to one such family.