Secondly, like other children without the condition, each baby with Down Syndrome is unique. Each has its own personality, talents, attitudes, and thoughts. There is no predetermined destiny guiding the child, like other children, a child with Down Syndrome will grow, learn and become a distinct individual. Many people are surprised to learn that Down Syndrome is not the only chromosomal abnormality that can affect children. In fact, there are quite a few others that can be present at birth.
Parents are often amazed to learn how often abnormalities occur at conception.
A significant number of chromosomal abnormalities don't actually let the embryos develop and as a result, a miscarriage usually occurs. Although babies with Down Syndrome possess an extra number 21 chromosome, all of their other chromosomes are normal. In fact, the material in the number 21 chromosome is also normal, there is just too much of it. The presence of three copies of the 21st chromosome causes a genetic imbalance that alters the course of normal growth and development.