Gianna means "God is Gracious"

Gianna was born 01/22/09 in CT. She was diagnosed in utero with Edward's syndrome(Trisomy 18) and we were told she wouldn't even make it into this world. At 34 weeks, she arrived and showed everyone just how strong she was. Although her time here was short, we have been beyond blessed to be her parents and to love such a beautiful being. Gianna gained her angel wings on 6/29/09. She is the white flowers in the yard, the lights that flicker when I cry and our angel for always.

What is Edward's Syndrome (Trisomy 18)?

Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a condition which is caused by a chromosomal defect. It occurs in about 1 out of every 3000 live births. Unlike Down syndrome, which also is caused by a chromosomal defect, the developmental issues caused by Trisomy 18 are associated with medical complications that are more potentially life-threatening in the early months and years of life. 50% of babies who are carried to term will be stillborn.
At birth, intensive care admissions in Neonatal units are most common for infants with Trisomy 18.
Some children will be able to be discharged from the hospital with home nursing support for their families. And although less than 10 percent survive to their first birthdays, some children with Trisomy 18 can enjoy many years of life with their families, reaching milestones and being involved with their community.

What causes Trisomy 18?
At conception, 23 chromosomes from the father and 23 chromosomes from the mother combine to create a baby with a set of 46 chromosomes in each cell. A trisomy occurs when a baby has three #18 chromosomes instead of the normal two. This is something that happens at conception. There is a 1% or less chance of this reoccurring if a couple chooses to have more children. Although many parents worry about this, it is important to know that parents have done nothing before or during pregnancy to cause this disorder in their child.