Did anyone else see this programme on BBC1 tonight? Our little man was also prem, although not as early as those featured this evening, and I found some aspects of the programme made me feel rather uncomfortable. In particular the costs on society in treating any resulting handicapped kids (mainly CP) and whether their lives were worth living.

I was wondering what other people thought?

Dom

I watched it. It brought back a lot of memories of when my babies were born at 29 weeks.
My daughter has quadriplegic CP. I really felt for Bright's parents. What I hope it made other people realise is that the support isn't there for parents, which only adds to the stress.
I think it had a quite balanced view overall, though. I think it did show that even children with special needs can lead happy and fulfilling lives.

Yeah, I saw it too. I was actually quite surprised at how balanced it was. I felt that Bright's parents had had a raw deal and they gave quite a negative view of the whole business which made me feel uncomfortable. But that was offset by that wonderful woman with the twin girls, she was so great, her attittude was amazing! And I didn't think the professionals were being too negative about the value of disabled people. When I was first disabled nearly 20 years ago I can't imagine having seen such a balanced TV programme about disability. I think the media are improving, but they are doing it slowly!

In general I would agree with you both, it was just one of the comments made by the neonatologist about the cost to the NHS and social services and education departments of providing services for severely affected children.

On the plus side it gave me a better idea of what to expect since Megan's disabilities (the more severely affected twin) appeared very similar to Philip's.