In the lead up to their evening report on Sunday, CBS tweeted “Iceland is on pace to virtually eliminate Down syndrome through abortion. #CBSNOA learns more, tonight at 10pm ET/PT.” This left many of us outraged, disgusted and saddened — among a myriad of other strong emotions.
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Heralding such news on social media was obviously going to garner immediate backlash from the public, however, actress and mom-of-four, Patricia Heaton took to Twitter to post her opinion — and not only do we welcome it; we have to share it. The seven-time Emmy Award winner succinctly stated:
“Iceland isn’t actually eliminating Down Syndrome. They’re just killing everybody that has it. Big difference.”
Yes, Ms Heaton we hear you! When the majority of moms-to-be in the Nordic country, or “close to 100 percent” as the report stated, opt to “terminate their pregnancy” when they receive a positive test for Down syndrome, that is not something to be proud of. As Karen Gaffney, who has Down syndrome herself and has spent her life championing for the full inclusion of those with Down syndrome or other disabilities, reminds us: “I believe that Down Syndrome is a life worth saying ‘yes’ to.”
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Heaton is notoriously pro-life and is not frightened to vocalize her views, which haven’t always been well-received in the entertainment industry. In taking to Twitter she can hopefully encourage others to air their thoughts about such a tragic phenomenon. As a fellow Twitter user said: “Frightening & disturbing. I work w/children w/Down’s. Most rewarding thing I’ve ever done!” And as one mom shared: “My son has down syndrome.. he is a teenager who bowls, swims, dances, sings and LOVES Everyone!”
There were lots of other tweets in support of Heaton reminding us of the fact that the many countries cannot boast of eliminating Down syndrome, and that is something to cherish.
And today we celebrate...