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Courtney's Law

Courtney's Law is Oklahoma legislation that requires health care providers provide accurate, up-to-date information about select chromosomal disorders at the time of diagnosis. On 8/2/22, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt held a ceremonial bill signing with Courtney present in her crown and sash!  

"Since the day I was blessed with this wonderful human being, I have been an advocate for her and people with Down syndrome. In the beginning, I was unaware of my role as an advocate, I just knew I had to take the lead to create spaces and places for my daughter to enjoy her life to the fullest. My early lead has allowed her to lead. The saying "actions speak louder than words" embodies her. Her words may not be clear to some, but her actions are loud, intentional and driven from her soul. My family is my greatest blessing, my greatest worry, and my greatest reward. She is our strong tower."

-D. Gaines (Courtney's mom)

Watch video of Courtney's mom addressing the importance of Courtney's Law

In Oklahoma each year, approximately 60 children are born with Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21, which is why Down syndrome is also known as Trisomy 21. There is no cure for Down syndrome but early services can improve physical and intellectual abilities and help development to full potential. While we recommend the following resources for families, the views of these organizations do not reflect the official position of the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

Local support contact information:

You can find more information about Down syndrome including but not limited to physical, developmental, educational, psychosocial and outcomes, life expectancy, clinical course, intellectual and functional development, or treatment options here:

In Oklahoma each year, approximately 11 children are born with Edwards syndrome. People with Edwards syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 18, which is why Edwards syndrome is also known as Trisomy 18. Edwards syndrome is a serious genetic condition and there is no cure. Families will likely need and benefit from support services. While we recommend the following resources for families, the views of these organizations do not reflect the official position of the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

Local support contact information:

Oklahoma Family Network
(877) 871-5072
(405) 271-5072

SoonerStart
(405) 426-8494

You can find more information about Edwards syndrome including but not limited to physical, developmental, educational, psychosocial and outcomes, life expectancy, clinical course, intellectual and functional development, or treatment options here:

In Oklahoma each year, approximately 6 children are born with Patau syndrome. People with Patau syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 13, which is why Patau syndrome is also known as Trisomy 13. Patau syndrome is a serious genetic condition and there is no cure. Families will likely need and benefit from support services. While we recommend the following resources for families, the views of these organizations do not reflect the official position of the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

Local support contact information:

You can find more information about Patau syndrome including but not limited to physical, developmental, educational, psychosocial and outcomes, life expectancy, clinical course, intellectual and functional development, or treatment options here: