Update on Jana

        Beyond her wildest dreams, Jana Ellixson never imagined she would turn 40 and give birth to two healthy twin girls this year. Charlie Rae and Piper Rome were born at 8:14 and 8:15 a.m. via C-section on August 4th. Charlie weighed in at 6 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 19 inches long. Piper was 6 pounds, 1 ounce and 18.5 inches long.

"I can't say enough about Grand View. The nurses in the maternal fetal medicine area were phenomenal! I enjoyed seeing them every week for my stress test. Once I had the girls, I encountered breastfeeding challenges. The lactation consultant was responsive and helpful. Throughout my entire pregnancy, my doctors were on top of things, prepared for my big day," said Jana.

While the girls do not look exactly alike - they are fraternal twins - together they capture their parents' hearts with their sweet smiles, bright blue eyes, and shades of fuzzy brown hair. Big brother Tristan, age 2 and a half, is as excited as ever, although he still often mixes up the girls' names. At seven weeks old, the Ellixson twins make the now family of five complete.

Update on Vicki

      Chase Tyson Causerano was born on July 14, weighing in at 7 pounds, 10 ounces. A beauty, Chase had a head full of brown hair. He also had the physical characteristics often seen in individuals with Down syndrome - a flat face with an upward slant to the eye. Genetic testing confirmed Chase does have Down syndrome.

During his early weeks, Chase experienced some of the physical complications that sometimes accompany Down syndrome, including heart issues and poor muscle tone. These issues have been addressed and today, he is an active 11-pound boy. He's cooing, raising his head and pushing himself up onto his arms. He's even rolled over several times."It's amazing the impact a baby can have," Vicki said. "He's a wonderful baby. He even sleeps through the night five out of seven nights."

Chase's parents and his four-year-old brother are ready to face the challenges and joys that raising a special-needs child will bring, starting with educating their own family. "There are many generations in our family. Everyone comes with a different perspective on kids with Down syndrome. One of the biggest challenges will be teaching people not to place limits on Chase so he can reach his full potential."

Facts about Down Syndrome
Source: National Down Syndrome Society  www.ndss.org

• Down syndrome occurs when an individual has three, rather than two, copies of the 21st chromosome. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.
• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. One in every 733 babies is born with Down syndrome.
• There are more than 400,000 people living with Down syndrome in the United States.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
• The incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.
• People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.
• A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all.
• Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades - from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.
• People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.
• All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.
• Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
• Researchers are making great strides in identifying the genes on Chromosome 21 that cause the characteristics of Down syndrome. Many feel strongly that it will be possible to improve, correct or prevent many of the problems associated with Down syndrome in the future.