UK Human Development Institute Releases 'Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome' Book

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 28, 2015) — The University of Kentucky Human Development Institute recently released "Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome: A New Parent’s Guide to the First Month” by Stephanie Hall Meredith and Nancy McCrea Iannone to offer support and accurate, reliable information to the new parents of a baby with Down syndrome.

The book, released July 28, covers topics like breastfeeding, adjusting to a diagnosis, preparing siblings, understanding medical issues, preparing for the future, and, most importantly, it shares diverse stories about the daily lives of families whose children have Down syndrome at different ages. The book also features beautiful images by noted photographers, Kelle Hampton, Matthew Day, and Conny Wenk.

“Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome” is available for free digitally at http://downsyndromepregnancy.org/, a program hosted by the Human Development Institute, and printed copies are available for purchase from the publisher, Woodbine House.

This book is critical for new parents first learning about a diagnosis during a moment that can sometimes be overwhelming and vulnerable. Accurate and up-to-date information can be key in making sure children with Down syndrome get the support, medical care, and services they need right from the start to get the best outcomes for a lifetime. The book is based on “Diagnosis to Delivery: A Pregnant Mother’s Guide to Down Syndrome,” which has been distributed worldwide to nearly 15,000 families, medical providers, and Down syndrome organizations since 2010.

According to Kristy Anderson, mom of a newborn with Down syndrome, “This book is an invaluable resource for parents who are embarking on the journey of raising a child with Down syndrome. It was helpful for me to read a practical book that addressed the range of emotions, worries, and questions I had about my sweet baby. And, it’s written by experienced parents — the best experts of all!”

Sarah Cullen, family support director at the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) says, “’Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome’ is an exceptional resource for families and will be included in every MDSC First Call welcome package! The pages are full of essential information, practical suggestions and key resources, woven together with compassion and support. This book will undoubtedly be the gold standard for families of newborns with Down syndrome.”

Campbell Brasington, genetic counselor at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina, adds, “This new parent guide is an incredible resource for new parents that gently guides them through the first days and weeks after their new baby’s diagnosis … As a genetic counselor, it is important to me to have accurate, balanced, and up-to-date resources to give to new families that also show parents the amazing potential of this new life. This new handbook fits that bill and then some.”

Tax deductable contributions can help the Human Development Institute continue offering these important digital resources free.  More information is available at http://downsyndromepregnancy.org/donate/. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Whitney Harder, 859-323-2396, whitney.harder@uky.edu