Countries eliminate Down syndrome through abortions

JUPITER, Fla. (CBS12) — When Emily Bukow gave birth to her daughter, Grace, it was a blessing that also came with unexpected challenges.

“I had no indication there was anything wrong,” Bukow said. “We just shifted gears and we did what was necessary.”

Grace was born with Down syndrome, as was her brother Joshua, who was adopted by Bukow and her family.

It's a bond that Grace and Joshua share with millions of others.

The National Down Syndrome society estimates approximately 6,000 babies are born each year in the United States with the genetic disorder.

But in Iceland, the number of children born with Down syndrome is nearly non-existent.

A recent CBS News investigation reported that 100 percent of women in Iceland whose prenatal tests came back positive for Down syndrome chose to end their pregnancy.

“I think if a parent gets a positive diagnosis if their child will have Down syndrome, they will have time to prepare and become educated and make a decision that’s informed, where in Iceland they seem to make a negative tone from the onset, so it’s not really supportive,” Bukow said.

CBS News found there are common trends across Europe, when it comes to women terminating pregnancies because of positive prenatal tests.

• Denmark: 98 percent
• United Kingdom: 90 percent
• France: 77 percent
• United States: 67 percent

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder which can cause developmental delays.

Since the story aired, there has been plenty of backlash online.

Sarah Palin, former Alaska Governor and Republican Vice Presidential candidate, shared the story on Twitter, writing “This is heartbreaking. Life matters.”

Actress Patricia Heaton posted on Twitter “Iceland isn’t actually eliminating Down syndrome. They’re just killing everybody that has it. Big difference.”

That tweet alone sparked many to share their stories of having Down syndrome and to celebrate their lives.

Bukow believes Iceland’s approach is sending the wrong message about children and adults with Down syndrome.

“They are as involved in their lives and society, they are productive and purposeful as my other three children," she said. "They are involved in sports, they are involved in music, they go to dances, they have a full life."