When Doctor's Said No, The Bythewood's Said Yes

Brent and Dana Bythewood live in Franklin, Tennessee and married as a blended family of five. During the first couple years of their marriage they experienced heartache in the form of two miscarriages. Then, during Dana’s third pregnancy, the doctor’s gave the couple news they were least expecting; Their baby had several heart abnormalities and life outside of the womb would be impossible.

After the Bythewood’s received this news the doctor’s immediately recommended abortion.

Abortion is a common go-to for those in the medical field. Within the Down syndrome community, many parents hear it suggested one time too many. "Your baby has a 90% chance of having Down syndrome. We recommend abortion.” “There are several Down syndrome markers present. We recommend having an abortion.” “Down syndrome means an unhealthy and difficult life. We recommend abortion.” This is a huge concern for those in the disability community and an issue many are trying to correct by educating medical professionals and the general public.

Instead of taking the doctor’s advice when the Bythewood’s were told there was nothing they could do for their baby, they went a different route. They decided to lean on hope and turn to their religion.

While Brent spent his days preparing for a funeral, Dana spent her days on an emotional roller-coaster never knowing if that day was to be the last they’d get to spend with their baby, a daughter they had already named Emily.

Dana, Brent and Emily Bythewood. Photo courtesy of Dana Bythwood.

At 19 weeks pregnant, Dana went to her doctor for a routine pregnancy check-up. The doctor’s informed her that the fluid that had once surrounded Emily had disappeared; It was just...gone. Their doctor had no explanation for them, no medical reason that made any sense. But again, they were told there was no way Emily would make it past 22 weeks.

But she did. Emily arrived at 37 weeks and 5 days on June 24, 2019 and Dana announced her arrival on Facebook:

Our beautiful Emily Hope IS HERE & arrived at 8lb 7oz. & 20 inches long. Thankful to God! Please be praying for this angel as she begins her journey in the NICU. Mommy is doing well too! Thank you all so so much for the prayers and love, keep them coming!!

While Emily did spend time in the NICU, went through multiple surgeries, an intubation, and a lung bleed, she is healthy, loved and thriving at home with her parents and siblings.

Emily Bythewood. Photo courtesy of Dana Bythwood.

The Bythewood’s are a beacon of hope; They said yes when their doctor’s told them no. They made a choice that we can only hope to see more of around the world.