Letters to Me: Dear Sharna

It's one of the calls we all dread after receiving the news that you're pregnant, and you received it shortly after your 12 week ultrasound. I remember the day the Dr called and asked me to come in to discuss the last ultrasound, as she explained that there is a chance your baby could have T21 (down syndrome) my whole world came crashing down and the thoughts of this perfect little baby and all the dreams and view of the future I had vanished.

If only I could go back to tell myself not to be upset and not to cry all those tears. Yes, I know you will be scared and have a1000 what ifs constantly run through your mind ... but you will have the what ifs as a

first time mum anyway (this just added a few more)

All the worries about if you are going to be healthy, be able to walk, talk, be accepted -these were the added worries, which scared the hell out of me, and sometimes they still do, but I know that you, my baby,

will be great in this life of yours. The day you were born all that fear disappeared - I read that line over and over on all the forums and Facebook groups I joined during pregnancy, but never fully believed it, until you were here and I learnt first hand that it is most definitely a true statement!

You became not only my little ray of sunshine, but everyone's. You are perfect, sprinkled with a little extra.

If I could go back and tell myself that everything would be ok, and that yes the baby that you are having will be perfect, I would. The little baby you were so worried about has taught you what love, patience, determination and resilience is, and of course that there are days that have their challenges (don't every parent have these anyway?)

Now that you are here, even though there will always remain a tiny level of fear, for the most part that fear has been replaced with excitement. Excitement to see you grow and live your life to the fullest with a smile on your face and a bounce in your step.

Written by Sharna, Ambassador Charlee's mum