We met with Dr. Silber this afternoon. He offered his condolences for our miscarriage and informed us that he believes the results of the embryonic genetic testing to be erroneous. In his opinion, the lab inadvertently tested my tissue instead of that of the fetus. Consequently, the testing showed normal female chromosomes when the fetus was, indeed, chromosomally abnormal (hence, the miscarriage). Although Dr. Silber had no hard evidence of this, he seemed convinced that the baby had a genetic issue that kept it from developing correctly. And, he said the lab's error was not uncommon. Scary.
As for our current situation, Dr. Silber recommended that we allow each embryo to undergo genetic testing prior to IVF. According to doc, he would use the process to identify embryos with genetic abnormalities and exclude them from being transferred during IVF. Our chances of pregnancy would naturally decrease (with fewer embryos available), but our odds of having another miscarriage would be much fewer. It may come as a surprise to some, but I felt strongly that we should not do the testing.
Here's why: 1) I believe that God is sovereign over all. That includes our IVF...and, as far as I know, He does not listen to statistics or lab results. 2) By Dr. Silber's admission, the lab makes mistakes and may accidentally omit a perfectly viable embryo from the process. 3) The testing is at least $4500, in addition to the $16K. That's no pocket change. To me, there are three compelling reasons to forgo the pre-IVF genetic testing. I'd rather put my future children in the hands of the Almighty than a room full of scientists. Can I get a witness?!
In God's hands, Ramona
3 comments:
Ramona,
You seem like a bright young woman, yet:
If God is Sovereign over all, why then are you pursuing IVF.
You appear to pick and choose according to your personal desires. If your faith is to be credible you would do God's will, not Ramona's will.
Perhaps God's will is for you to adopt a child that would sell his soul to fall asleep at night in the arms of a loving parent.
Perhaps God's will is for you to cherish the family you have.
Perhaps God's will is for you to accept his will.
Hmmm.. This is a tough one.
I am relieved, Ramona, that you are choosing to NOT do the testing. When I first started reading your entry I found myself saying, "Oh, No." Then exhaled when you said you wouldn't do it. Testing each embryo, or person, for genetic chromosomes just seems to be judging the quality of their life based on man's standards. Is it possible to have genetic abnormalities and still implant, and then grow into a fully developed baby? Or even a premature baby? Would our dearly loved Maegan Morris have been cast out and not known by her family for a wonderful 10 days??? The thought just brings tears to my eyes!!
I understand the contraversy that the above blogger describes. Does the Bible say that IVF is wrong?? God says he is the author of ALL life and knows each one before he or she is in his or her mother's womb. This is what we know. I know that you and Wade have prayerfully considered each option. Both of you agree that IVF is the best option for your family and have found the financial resources to do so. Even though Chris and I may not have chosen this route had we been in this situation (we'll never know), this is YOUR decision. Ultimately, the will you follow is between you and God. God's purpose is for our sanctification and to receive all of the glory and praise that we have to offer!
Liliana is blessed to have you as a mommy. I hope God grants you more children. Regardless, God has been working on your heart...the important part!
You are loved,
Lori
Wow! I know everyone has their own views but that first comment just seems so harsh to me. I guess I just see it differently. I see it as God providing us various resources today that we have choices about given our situations.
And, to me it just appears that this is God's will for your family. I support your decision because I know it's not a flip of the coin type of decision. I know it took a lot of prayer, time, energy, emotions, and not to mention finances for your family to reach this choice.
I guess in short, I just wanted to say that while it's certainly okay for everyone to have their own views and for folks to disagree, I truly hope that this does not discourage you and your family. I can honestly say that if I were in your shoes, I would probably do the very same thing knowing that the whole process of pregnancy and childbirth is so miraculous and wonderful.
I truly hope that a few months down the road we are all reading about a new miracle...or two...or three =) in your lives!!!
Continued Prayers,
Leann and Crew
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