Library Thursdays: Making a Case for Life: A New Definition of Perfection

New to the library this week is a slim book, Making a Case for Life: A New Definition of Perfection, written by Stephanie Wincik, a nurse in the U.S., who has worked for many years with individuals with intellectual disabilities. She was prompted to write this book when she discovered that 80-90% of fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted. She is not against abortion per se but feels that each case should be made after receiving clear and unbiased information and she believes that that information is not being received. So she wrote this book addressing the standard myths and arguments against having a child with Down syndrome. She also includes an interview with a young woman with Down syndrome, Bridget Brown, who has set up an advocacy group, Butterflies for Change. She also interviews Bridget's mother about having a child with Down syndrome. Lastly she discusses what people with Down syndrome bring to the world and why it is important that society does not condemn them as imperfect and unworthy of life. Wincik proposes that in these times, society could use the traits of people with Down syndrome and that we need to create a new definition of perfection. She further illustrates this with the inclusion of Dennis McGuire's excellent article "If People with Down Syndrome Ruled the World".

Wincik is clearly passionate about the topic. Her arguments are sound and will be of no surprise to families of people with Down syndrome. The fact that her connection with people with Down syndrome is as a professional helps to balance the zealousness of the book. Presumably the target audience is those with a pre-natal diagnosis or the medical profession. Both may better access this over the internet but as part of a pre-natal pack it may be useful. Another use would be to give to extended family members who have trouble accepting a child with Down syndrome and the decision of the parents. I enjoyed the essay at the end about the need for diversity in the world and rethinking perfection. And I enjoyed re-reading McGuire's article in this context. I think the interview section in the middle was fine but maybe more voices would have added to the book. It is nice to see this type of book and I hope that it raises awareness with some and gets people thinking.

If you'd like to borrow this book or any other from the library, just email.

Stephanie Wincik's website

Another look at selecting the perfect baby