Day Twenty-nine

This picture is the group of family and friends who came to the hospital the day Polina and I left the hospital.  She was three weeks old.  We were told that the hospital had a tradition of a champagne toast when a family leaves and in the same breath were also informed that they were not planning a reception for us because our daughter had Down syndrome.

Even in the midst of my inner struggle I was appalled at this kind of discrimination.  Sergei and I called everyone we knew.  People came with flowers and balloons, presents, smiles and happiness.  Americans, Ukrainians, young and old.  Someone said it was the largest group they’ve ever had for a goodbye.

We toasted Polly’s little life and Sergei prayed and thanked God for our new daughter and asked that she would fulfill the purpose he had for her.  I squeezed the baby close and tried to pray too with every fiber of my being.  The tears that fell from my eyes had a hint of joy.

After the hugs and well wishes we all piled in to the car to go home to our apartment; me, Polly, Sergei, my mom, Elaina and Zoya.

The city looked different to me.