I went to a conference where the talk was about Jerome Lejeune, a man who discovered the extra gene that causes Down syndrome and who devoted his life to finding a treatment. However, with this discovery, doctors were able to detect these defects and destroy the life of the unborn. Jerome Lejeune realized that he had to protect and defend the unborn with chromosomal abnormalities. This would lead him to become the first president for the Pontifical Academy for Life. He died on April 1994.
The conference began with Ms. Aude Dugast, the Postulator for Dr. Lejeune’s cause for canonization. She talked about the life, work and faith of Dr. Lejeune. She explained how faith and reason cannot be divided but complement each other. He had a love for his patients that he tired to find a cure. Ms. Dugast explained that he is in the process of becoming a saint since he is now considered a Servant of God.
The next speaker was Mr. Steven Brown, a parent to a child who has Down syndrome. He explained how it is a blessing to have his child and his unconditional love for him. His child has taught him about the meaning and perspective of life. Mr. Steven Brown showed various pictures of his handsome son playing sports and having fun with his siblings. His son finds joy and happiness then most people that I know of.
The conference concluded with Mr. Mark Bradfrod, the president of the Jerome Lejeune Foundation USA. Mr. Bradfrod explained how this foundation is still continuing the legacy of Dr. Lejeune on finding a cure to Down syndrome in order to prevent abortion.
I conclude with this:
‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’
Lupe y Vida 