I’ve spoken before about the many health risks associated with a Down syndrome diagnosis — we’ve gone from great cardiology and heart concerns which effects about half of people with Down syndrome to those growing concerns associated with low muscle tone, vision and hearing problems.

According to the National Institute of Health, there are many other common conditions to keep an eye on with people with Down Syndrome. Some of these include a higher chance of blood disorders and leukemia as well as hypothyroidism.

To closely monitor the levels and to watch for warning signs of these things, Zach has bloodwork at least twice a year. It’s not the most enjoyable experience — Zach and I both have to prep ourselves for bloodwork days — but it is a day that is so essential for us to guarantee his continued good health or deal with any issues that may come up along the way.

Most recently, we had to go back for a second round of routine bloodwork when Zach’s thyroid hormone levels were high. I don’t wish any issues upon my son (in fact, I pray fervently for quite the opposite), but I am so very grateful for the advances in care and understanding for people like my son. We have increased the lifespan of people with Down syndrome almost entirely because of our knowledge of what to look for and when throughout one’s life. Zach’s second round of bloodwork came back entirely within normal limits, so, for us, we are granted six more months to spend our days with less worry.

The many what-ifs are daunting, sometimes terrifying.

But again, I am so happy that we have a pediatrician who understands what to look for and who keeps Zach on track to live a happy and healthy life.

At our last bloodwork appointment, Z-Man remembered what was coming and he was scared. But he sucked in his bottom lip and picked his head up super straight and looked at me and said, “It will be OK, momma, right?” I nodded yes and I held  him close and I thanked my lucky stars for his bravery and amazing medical science and technology and all the blessings and lucky moments thrown upon me and my family.

The list of things that can go wrong is long. But the things that are so beautiful and happy and joyful are many more.