Disclosure of Genetic-related Disease
Melanie Elliott / Nightingale
It is my belief that we must actively participate in our own personal health and that of all family members....and to that end, it is our responsibility to be accountable and to do so in the spirit of the wellness of our vulnerable children, siblings, parents and immediate family members.
This accountability becomes a conundrum as the presence of a hereditary disease has the power to lead young couples to ask if they are prepared to have children who may well be challenged.
It is the author's experience, news regarding existing hereditary diseases(s), was met by family members in a manner of disbelief and others feeling shameful. Whereas, some had a sense of pride in recognizing that forefathers experienced these diseases and despite limitations were actively engaged in:
- a superior parenting role,
- demonstrated productive agriculture practices, and
- were embraced by the community.
With the support of the author's brother, the author uncovered the presence of "seven" inherited diseases within the family.
It is also the author's belief that when a child is "given up" for adoption, that all known inherited disease from the birth parents be passed on to the adopting parents. This matter arose when a family member privately adopted their child to a loving couple.
The new parents were not made aware that their new baby was likely born (75%) chance with an inherited neuropsychological disease This condition would greatly influence the child's early school years, however - if known, appropriate alternative instruction would enable the child to excel. If the new parents were not informed, the child would struggle with unacceptable behaviours and the learning process would greatly become very problematic.
The author is also of the opinion and experience that a "family tree' is not complete without the notation of family members with specific hereditary disease.
Nightingale
