Trisomy 13: Challenging the Narrative and Choosing Hope

What happens when a diagnosis labeled "lethal" doesn't tell the full story? In this episode of Inside the Children's Hospital, Katie Taylor sits down with Nicole, a mom of five, who shares her daughter Charlotte's journey with Trisomy 13—a diagnosis often associated with limited survival and quality of life. After receiving devastating news over the phone while at work, Nicole and her husband were told their daughter likely wouldn't survive. But instead of accepting that narrative, they sought out information, second opinions, and a care team willing to partner with them. From navigating medical bias and a complicated NICU stay to bringing Charlotte home without nursing support, Nicole shares what it really looks like to parent a medically complex child—and the joy that exists alongside the challenges. This conversation highlights the importance of advocacy, informed decision-making, and viewing each child as an individual—not just a diagnosis. You'll hear: What it was like to receive a Trisomy 13 diagnosis unexpectedly and over the phone How Nicole and her husband navigated conflicting medical opinions and bias The critical role of second opinions and finding the right care team What life looks like caring for a child with a trach, ventilator, and G-tube How siblings adjusted and built meaningful relationships with Charlotte The reality of parenting without in-home nursing support Why quality of life is often misunderstood—and deeply personal This is a story of advocacy, resilience, and redefining what's possible What You'll Learn in This Episode What Trisomy 13 is and how it can present differently in every child Why it's important to ask questions and advocate within the healthcare system How medical bias can impact care decisions—and how to navigate it The value of support groups and connecting with other families What daily life can look like for families of medically complex children How siblings adapt and grow in families with high medical needs Why "quality of life" is subjective and should center the family's perspective Key Takeaway A diagnosis does not define a child's life—and when families are given the space, support, and information to make informed decisions, they can create a path filled with joy, connection, and meaning. Resources Mentioned SOFT (Support Organization for Trisomy 13, 18, and Related Disorders) Extra to Love Hope for Trisomy Emersynn Isla Shining Star Foundation Asher's Answer Trisomy 13 & 18 Parent Support Groups (Facebook communities) Understanding Trisomy 13 Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) AAP Article: Guidance for Caring for Infants and Children with Trisomy 13 Follow Charlotte on Facebook This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every diagnosis is a child, a family, and a story that deserves to be fully seen and understood. If you liked this episode, listen to these Inside the Children's Hospital Episodes: A daughter with Trisomy 18 Trisomy 21 Story Connect with Us

You can listen to Trisomy 13: Challenging the Narrative and Choosing Hope online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

Trisomy 13: Challenging the Narrative and Choosing Hope is an episode from Child Life On Call: Parents of children with an illness or medical condition share their stories with a child life specialist by Child Life On Call®.

This episode is 59:45 long.

This episode was published on May 6, 2026.

Yes. Use the heart button on the episode page to add it to your favorite episodes list.

Yes. This page shows related episodes from Child Life On Call: Parents of children with an illness or medical condition share their stories with a child life specialist when more episodes are available from the podcast feed.