Adoption of mentally impaired babies

[Catholic_Lady]

How do you guys feel about a couple who, upon learning their unborn baby had a mental impairment such as Down Syndrome (or other), decide to look for a good family to adopt their baby? Apparently there are people out there who feel a calling and have a passion for special needs children, and who specifically look for these types of babies to adopt. 

Let me also say that this pregnant couple has the financial means and plenty of support to take care of a mentally impaired child. But the reason they want to put their child up for adoption is because they feel like emotionally/mentally they just wouldn't be able to handle the grief and heartache that would come from seeing their child struggle through life.   

So, do you think it's wrong for the pregnant couple to choose to put their baby up for adoption in this case? Would you judge them? How do you feel about this type of decision?

(bolded to emphasize this would be about finding a loving adopted family prior to the birth, NOT leaving the child in an orphanage)

I personally couldn't bear the thought of giving my child away, no matter what condition he/she was in at birth.  In fact, I find it even MORE gut-wrenching the thought of giving away a baby who has increased medical needs, and requires a higher level of care than even a healthy new born.  How could a mother abandon her helpless, struggling offspring like that?   I just don't get it.  Getting pregnant comes with many known risks (not that I have to tell you that, ofc).  Personally, I find it horrifying when people want to give away their babies because they're...not the kind of baby that they'd "hoped" for.  Bringing life into the world is the ultimate responsibility.  IMO, if you aren't prepared to assume all those known risks then you shouldn't be procreating, because you have very little control over what will happen.  This is only my personal, subjective, highly emotionally charged and biased opinion, btw.  ?

I agree with you. After having it happen to me, I realize I personally could never have done it.

But I would have nothing but respect for those who choose to stay pregnant for the sake of giving their baby the best life possible with more capable parents.