An influencer couple who ended a pregnancy after learning their baby had Down Syndrome have shared their reasoning publicly, saying the decision was “not made lightly”.
Jesse Ridgway and his wife, Ashley, spoke about the situation on June 3. The update came after they revealed in March that they were expecting “Baby Ridgway,” due in “fall 2026”.
Jesse said he understands some followers may feel upset by their choice, but emphasized that the experience has been “extremely traumatic” for them, including Ashley, 31.
“When I first confronted this news, I was shocked but optimistic,” he wrote to fans on Instagram.
“If they’re a little slow intellectually, then we’ll make it work. I signed on to be a parent, come what may…but I just didn’t fully understand what Down syndrome entailed.”
He then outlined health complications he associates with the condition. Down Syndrome affects about 1 in every 640 babies in the US, according to the National Down Syndrome Society.
“Down Syndrome isn’t a ‘blessing,’ it is objectively s****y from a health perspective.
“I didn’t realize just how rough it is for the child, let alone the family…more often than not, they would be fully dependent on others for the rest of their life.”
Jesse also discussed how often pregnancies are terminated following a diagnosis, claiming a rate of 90 percent, while Healthline cites 67 percent in the US.
He added: “This was WAY higher than I expected, I thought it would be lower given I hear so many say they kept or would keep the baby.
“I believe that’s because most terminations happen privately [and] it feels shameful. A lot of judgement being cast.”
They also included a message to supporters who have Down Syndrome, saying they value them as part of their community.
“You matter a lot and we’re glad you’re here,” he said.
“I commend you and your families for having the strength and courage to push forward.”
The New Jersey couple originally confirmed the pregnancy with a joint post showing them seated together while holding up several sonogram photos.
Reflecting on the decision weeks later, Jesse said they believed it was the best path forward for their household.
Speaking about the choice they made weeks later, Jesse added: “We made a difficult decision that we believe in the long-run will be beneficial for our family.
“Thankfully, we had a choice. It will take a little time to move on, but we are excited to try again in the future and hopefully have a better outcome.”