By Dave Andrusko
Pro-life Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) has introduced the Protecting Girls with Turner Syndrome Act. Its stated goal is to “prohibit the intentional abortion of an unborn child diagnosed with Turner syndrome (TS) – a rare genetic condition that affects roughly 70,000 women and girls nationwide.”
“My faith teaches me that God creates every child for a purpose and a reason, and every child – both born and unborn – has special gifts to offer the world and further His kingdom,” said Rep. Feenstra. “My legislation protects unborn babies diagnosed with Turner syndrome from indiscriminate abortions and medical malpractice.” He added, “As a devout Christian and a father of four, I will continue to support policies that defend the sanctity of life and protect the right to life for all.”
Nicole Cleveland, an unwavering advocate for women and girls with Turner Syndrome from Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, offered a personal testimony..
“When I was born with Turner syndrome, my parents were informed my quality of life would be limited at best and it was likely I wouldn’t be able to walk,” she said. “All too often, medical professionals overlook what a child with special needs can accomplish and the value they bring to the world.” She concluded, “I appreciate Congressman Feenstra’s strong record of defending the unborn and his steadfast leadership on advancing the Protecting Girls with Turner Syndrome Act. He truly is a man of faith who is working to protect the most vulnerable among us.”
Pro-life groups joined in congratulated Rep. Feenstra.
“National Right to Life applauds Rep. Randy Feenstra for introducing the Protecting Girls with Turner Syndrome Act of 2023,” said Jennifer Popik, JD, Legislative Director of the National Right to Life Committee. “No baby should die from abortion simply because she has a disability. Mothers given a diagnosis of a disability of their unborn child have a right to be supported and to receive information on resources instead of being targeted for abortion.”
She concluded, “We thank Rep. Feenstra for his work on this important issue.”