Exclusive Clip: 'Born This Way' Star John Reveals Mother Chose Not to Abort Him Despite Down Syndrome Diagnosis

Leah Marieann Klett : Jul 26, 2016
Gospel Herald

"When I found out from the doctors at the amniocentesis, they first said it was a boy. They then said Down syndrome. 'Don't expect a lot. He will never be an asset to society. He will never be a productive citizen.' Those are the words they tell you—you know, all negative. I just said, 'No, John is gonna be my child. I will take care of him...'"

[Gospel Herald] "Born This Way," the critically acclaimed docu-series from A&E, returns with ten new episodes on July 26 and will continue to break down the stigma associated with Down syndrome. (Photo: A&E/via Gospel Herald)

The reality show centers around seven young adults living in California, all of whom were born with Down syndrome. Viewers are given an in-depth look at each individual as they follow their unique passions and lifelong dreams, whether it's singing, acting, or starting a small business. Throughout the season, they grow in their friendships and romantic relationships—all while defying society's expectations.
 
One of the stars of the show is John, an aspiring musician who constantly entertains his friends and family. In one particularly heartwarming scene, John shares with his friends how doctors offered his mother the option of an abortion when they informed her that her baby would be a boy with Down syndrome.
 
"[Before] I was born, the doctors told my mom that I'll be Down syndrome and so the doctors asked her if she wanted to have an abortion of me," John says.
 
The show then cuts to John's mother, Joyce. "When I found out from the doctors at the amniocentesis," she says, "they first said it was a boy. They then said Down syndrome. 'Don't expect a lot. He will never be an asset to society. He will never be a productive citizen.' Those are the words they tell you—you know, all negative. I just said, 'No, John is gonna be my child. I will take care of him. He has Down syndrome, but it's not gonna...'"

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