1. Our 20-week scan(s)
/How this rough roller-coaster ride began at our 20-week anomaly scan.
Read MoreHow this rough roller-coaster ride began at our 20-week anomaly scan.
Read MoreI’ve read through countless websites, scrolled through hundreds of forums and message boards, watched radiography seminars on YouTube, poured over PhD theses, scientific journals and blogs, and come across so many brave women and families who have experienced similar prenatal diagnosis. I have learned so much and found comfort in both science, and the strength of real people, as I have read their stories. I am a private person, and have been particularly private about my pregnancy, but have decided to share this difficult time in the hopes that it could help even one other mum out there, who might be going through the same.
One thing we never asked ourselves was “Why us?” Because we’re realistic. Why not us? Nature doesn’t care about your religion, your income, your culture, your job, your circumstances. We didn’t do anything wrong. We’re healthy, happy, and hopefully productive people who do our best and love our families. Lately, everything feels so beyond our control. But then we’ve stepped back and realised, that nothing is in our control—ever. We can lull ourselves into thinking that it is, but it’s not. As we try to accept that, we aren't disheartened by it. The way we see it, Junebug has already given us so much. This experience isn’t easy, it’s raw and painful and confusing and disorientating—but it’s also offered so much clarity. So much has been put in perspective, and we’re learning more about ourselves and each other, every day.
I would love the chance to thank Junebug and tell them all about it one day. Where there is life, there is hope.
The three of us, March 2018
Hello, my name is Cruz and I am pregnant with my first baby, lovingly addressed as Junebug—who is due June 2018.
I was born and live in Hong Kong. At my 20-week anomaly scan we found out our little Junebug’s long bones (arms and legs) were growing much slower than they should be, and their chest was also measuring small. That was our introduction to the world of skeletal dysplasia. Currently, as I write, we are waiting to find out whether our Junebug’s form of the condition is “compatible with life”.
We aren't losing hope. But talking about what we're going through, definitely helps.
Feel free to ask us questions in the comments sections.