For many, it’s no secret that society can be highly critical—based on looks, skin color, sexual orientation, and even physical ability. However, even in the face of adversity, people still manage to live full and happy lives. One such example is Alex Dacy and her partner, Noah.
Sharing an Invaluable Story
Alex Dacy was born with a rare genetic condition called Type 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy and has faced some backlash from others regarding her recent pregnancy journey. Although she became pregnant unexpectedly, she bravely chose to share her pregnancy journey on Instagram in the hopes of eliminating the “stigma” around parents with disabilities. “Disabled parenthood is so heavily stigmatized in society and I really want to open up conversations about this topic,” she explained in a post.
Alex further explains that she was receiving treatment for her condition but has since had to stop because of the impacts in may have on the baby. “I am considered a high-risk pregnancy, but I am being seen by a full team of doctors,” she said. “A lot of women with my disease give birth… yes, it is pretty much hell, but it is possible.”
Addressing Adversity
Alex also shared that she would most likely face some respiratory issues and might require a c-section for delivery, also sharing that she would need to be intubated because it’s “the safest thing we could do.” The couple met on a dating app and were only seven months into their relationship when they found out they were expecting. The couple has faced backlash from outsiders and their own families. Eventually, the families got to know them and felt more at ease with their relationship. However, Instagram followers have taken much longer to warm up.
Some have commented horrendous and hurtful things, further fueling Alex’s desire to do away with the stigma of disabled people becoming parents. Some have even questioned the validity of the pregnancy, or whether or not Noah has a “disability fetish“, claiming that he doesn’t love Alex. Instead, she has a fascination with her and her disability. Moreover, the couple has faced countless stares and judgments from people while they’re out and about.
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Fortunately, the couple has also been met with an outpouring of love and support from followers, particularly after the arrival of their tiny bundle of joy, Ari Jacqueline Smith, who was born on March 6, 2023. When Alex first held her baby girl, she was “speechless,” sharing a heartwarming video with followers. The video showed the new mama proudly holding her sweet baby. “I love this little human with my entire heart,” she declared. “We’re very caring, loving people, and we have the resources and love in our hearts to be able to raise a baby. We’re very confident in that.”
The Condition
Thus far, Ari doesn’t have the same genetic disorder as her loving mother. However, the disease impacts about 1 in 10,000 babies. Symptoms for the condition usually appear within the first 18 months of a baby’s life and will be a prevalent part of their life forever. The condition impacts muscle growth and motor skill development. It can progressively worsen over time, but symptoms include low muscle tone or weakness, a loss of reflexes, tongue atrophy, scoliosis, and respiratory issues, including restrictive lung disease.
There is no cure for the condition, but a handful of therapy methods have been developed to help preserve motor function. Some examples of treatments include mechanical ventilation or respiratory therapy and physical or occupational therapy, and in some cases, devices will be used to help with mobility and communication. While there is no cure, Alex is proving that it’s possible to navigate the challenges that often accompany disabilities successfully.
This story is one of many that prove love can truly conquer anything. Those with pure hearts, led by love, always find a way to prevail, even if the road comes with countless blocks along the way. It also highlights the importance of understanding that people are all just people, regardless of their physical features or abilities. Everyone feels both hurt and love in their hearts, depending on how they’re treated by others. Fortunately, this couple has chosen to disregard the criticism of the public and is still going strong with their “perfect” family.
Sources
- “A Man Slammed for Getting a Disabled Woman Pregnant, Shows What a Strong Family They’ve Formed.” Bright Side.
- “What Is Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2?” Healthline. Lauren Conti. January 8, 2024.
- “Strangers ask how I’m going to care for my baby… seems pretty ableist to me.” Kidspot. Brittney Deguara. December 14, 2022.