It's not everyday that you get to see the actual chromosomes in one of your cells. Recently I was able to get a copy of Erin's karyotype, which is a profile of a person's chromosomes. Along with the karyotype came the actual image of one of her cells that was examined shortly after her birth. As you can clearly see here, she has three 21st chromosomes, which happen to be the smallest of the human chromosomes. Hence, the scientific name, Trisomy 21, otherwise known as Down syndrome.
It's interesting, and may even sound a bit strange to some, but I have grown to love that extra chromosome that is found in all the cells of my sweet little girl's body. Partly, the extra 21st is what makes Erin unique; it's what makes Erin, Erin. I feel so incredibly blessed and honored to be her mother. I plan to frame this karyotype, this little fingerprint from God, and save it as a keepsake for us to cherish.
