January is known for many things, but one of the things that it has received attention for is because it is National Birth Defect Month. This year’s theme is “Best for You. Best for Baby.”

Families around the world recognize this month because one of their family members has a birth defect, something that affected that individual physically or mentally before he or she was born.

According to mchb.hrsa.gov, “Birth defects, also known as congenital anomalies, occur in approximately 3% of all live births.” Sadly, birth defects are also a leading cause of death in unborn babies, too.

“Not a lot of people are lucky enough to be like us. Let [people with defects] be and let them live as normal as much as they can,” said Josh XXXX. “They are as important as us and to others and people don’t see how amazing it is.”

While some defects can be found and cured, not all defects can be prevented. In either case, families generally will do anything for their child, no matter what happens to them. “Live your life to the fullest,” said XXXX, a Special Education teacher who works with students with special needs daily.

Those who want to know more about how to honor those with birth defects or support them can visit https://www.nbdpn.org/bdpm.php to learn all about how to prevent and adapt to those with special needs that start before birth.