YouTuber Jesse Ridgway says he and his wife, Ashley, chose to end a pregnancy after learning their fetus had Down syndrome, and he's now explaining the decision directly to his followers. In an Instagram story posted this week and later shared by Ashley, the 33-year-old influencer wrote that the couple made "the very difficult decision to terminate the pregnancy due to trisomy 21," adding that the choice followed consultations with doctors, genetic counselors, friends, and family, per People. He also noted that he was told 90% of women who receive a Down syndrome diagnosis end up having an abortion, though Healthline reports that stat in the US is more like 67%.
Ridgway wrote that he initially felt "shocked but optimistic" and ready to parent "come what may," but he soon came to better understand potential health complications linked to Down syndrome, including heart, hearing, and developmental issues. He acknowledged the move would disappoint some fans and described the experience as "extremely traumatic" for the New Jersey couple, who announced the pregnancy in March. Addressing followers with autism or Down syndrome, he emphasized, "You matter a lot and we're glad you're here," praising their families' "strength and courage."
Ridgway said he and Ashley believe the decision will ultimately be best for their family and hope to try again "in the future." He noted that after their announcement on their "impossible decision," they started feeling the heat online, even receiving death threats, reports TMZ. "I've never seen such hate and vitriol for two people grieving the loss of their unborn child," he wrote in a social media post on Thursday, saying that some have even compared him and his wife to Hitler. "If you ever wanted to marvel at the depravity of people online, just check the replies on my latest tweet."
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