A podcast bringing you conversations with ordinary people who have received extraordinary information about chromosomal differences in their pregnancy.
Prospective parents are increasingly encouraged to seek relief and reassurance earlier in pregnancy through non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPT). But what if the results are unexpected? What if they raise more questions than answers?
In this first series, host Elizabeth Callinan speaks with Sallie, Kaisi, Chantelle, Naomi and Al and Belinda about how they navigated the options available to them after screening results showed a high chance of chromosomal differences.
These stories are shared so we can learn but not judge and as non-invasive prenatal screening is becoming a routine part of pregnancy, they need our urgent attention.
Supported by The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Disability Institute and
The Vasudhara Foundation
Producer: Joel Supple
Joel Supple is an audio producer whose work has aired on ABC Radio National, ABC Rural, NPR and numerous podcasts. She has worked with communities in the Solomon islands, Indonesia and Central Australia establishing community driven radio projects.
Executive Producer and Host: Elizabeth Callinan
Elizabeth is a Melbourne based freelance writer with a background in social policy. Elizabeth is a member of the University of Melbourne Genetics in Pregnancy course advisory group. Elizabeth has three children - Jasper, Rory and Greta. Greta has mosaic Down syndrome.
Genetic counsellor: Melody Menezes
Melody is the Head Genetic Counsellor and Scientific Director at Monash Ultrasound for Women. She is also a Lecturer and Clinical Coordinator for the University of Melbourne Master of Genetic Counselling course. Melody has over ten years of experience working as a prenatal genetic counsellor and her research and clinical interests include prenatal screening and testing, disability issues, and the ethical, legal and social aspects of genetic testing.