Three Down Syndrome Babies Waiting for Families!

I am currently advocating for placement of three adorable baby boys living in Eastern Europe.  They all have Down Syndrome and are doing very well developmentally.  Milo is a darling baby born in August of 2009.  He does not have an associated heart defect but does have hypothyroidism and is under the care of an endocrinologist.  Ivan was born in March of 2009 and is quite healthy.  He has formed a good emotional bond with one of his caregivers.  Steffen was born in July of 2009.  Steffen does have the heart malformation commonly associated with Down Syndrome.  He is a calm child with a joyful personality.  Steffen is only slightly delayed in motor skills and speech activity. 

People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.  A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all. All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.  For more information on Down Syndrome please go to

National Down Syndrome Society website.