Topic: Concluding the Visit Copy

Dr. Thomas:

We will want to monitor your baby’s health carefully, especially if the baby does have a heart defect. However, I anticipate that your pregnancy will otherwise be normal, as well as your delivery.

Mrs. Abbott:

(Hesitatingly) I am just not sure what to do.

Mr. Abbott:

(Compassionately) Darling, I know. I am at as much a loss as you. (Then turning to Dr. Thomas) Don’t we have a limited time to make a decision to terminate, if we choose that?

Dr. Thomas:

There isn’t a rush at this point in making your decision, but if as a couple, if you do decide to terminate, there are fewer risks of physical complications for your wife with earlier terminations.

Mr. Abbott:

I see, doctor, so we have a little time?

Dr. Thomas:

Yes, but you do need to keep me informed of what you want for this pregnancy. Decisions like this are never easy, and I know how much you have hoped for this child. For now, you need to talk with each other about what you are feeling, and I will be here to answer any questions you may have. This has to be your decision – I want to help you get all the information that you can.

Mrs. Abbott:

(More hopefully) Well, I would like to take a look at the materials with Nick. When should we let you know about our decision? If we have questions, will you help us?

Dr. Thomas:

We can schedule an appointment for two weeks from now to explore our next steps or answer any additional questions about your pregnancy. But also feel free to call me in the meantime, and, as I said, I would encourage you to talk directly to another parent at the local Down syndrome group. I think you will find them to be knowledgeable as well as supportive.

Mr. Abbott:

(Gratefully. Stands up to leave.) Thank you very much, Dr. Thomas, for being honest with us. We will see you next week. We are going to do a lot of thinking and praying about this.

Mrs. Abbott:

(Talking in a quieter, reflective tone. Also stands up to leave.) I appreciate all of your help, Dr. Thomas. Your support is very important to us. I didn’t tell Nick, but in the last few days, I guess I have been preparing myself, at least in the back of my mind, for this.

Dr. Thomas:

(Sincerely, also standing up to leave). Take care. I want you to know that I will help in any way that I can.

Mrs. Abbott:

(Turning back to Dr. Thomas as she prepares to leave): I had meant to ask you, until we started talking about the Down syndrome thing. Do you know if this baby is a boy or girl?

Dr. Thomas:

It is a boy, Mrs. Abbott.

Mrs. Abbott:

(Smiling slightly) Thank you, doctor.