Thread by @cathymcmorris

Here's a bit about my #prolife story. I’ve never had an abortion, but I gave thought in my younger years of what I would do if I found myself pregnant and alone. It would have been a desperate situation.

I can imagine an abortion seeming like an easy solution.

It breaks my heart to think anyone would consider abortion as their only option or the best option.

Growing up, I was never much of a baby person. I was 35 and single when I was elected to Congress. I didn’t know if becoming a mom would happen for me.

Today, I can testify that bringing a new life into the world was the best thing to ever happen to me.

We have two daughters and a son. Our oldest, Cole, now 14, was born with an extra 21st chromosome. It’s the most common chromosomal abnormality, Down syndrome.

Unfortunately, today we are debating legislation that would allow abortion for any reason at any stage. It would allow discriminatory abortions based on a baby’s sex, race, and disability – and even prohibit states from protecting babies with Down syndrome.

For anyone who is not convinced of the value, dignity, and potential of people with Down syndrome, I invite you to meet my son, Cole.

I understand the uncertainty and the fear when doctors give the long list of challenges and chances for heartache. But Cole’s life couldn’t be further from what we were told. He brings my family an immense amount of joy and love.

I know there’s an army of parents with children with Down syndrome who say the same about their children. twitter.com/i/events/14407…

My hope is that we learn and open our hearts to the science, to the research, and technology and come to reject abortion because it is inhumane.

For those of us who stand for life, we must do a better job of listening and loving. Fear and despair leads to more arguments, anger, discord, and more insecurity.

I believe that is why abortion is the most divisive issue in America today. It pierces every heart. It may be the sharpest, deepest, soul-searching question before us as a nation, and it is intensely personal.

I remember when we all stood up and applauded Frank Stephens for his powerful testimony. He said, “I’m a man with Down syndrome, and my life is worth living.”

I ask that today we do the same, follow our hearts, and stand up for all children. Their lives are worth living.

Stop the Abortion on Demand until Birth Act and uphold the value and the dignity, the potential of every person’s life.