Zoe Bowen-family and future Trisomy 18 families

Hi my name is Russ Bowen

On Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10 p.m., sweet Zoe Victoria Bowen “Zozo” started her eternal journey in the loving arms of her mom Sylvia, dad Ryan, and her sister Heidi Joy. She was surrounded by the love of family at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital of Alabama (Hotel Children’s).

Zoe was born on May 27, 2021 at UAB Hospital. Although Zoe did not stay with us for as long as we would have loved, she left memories and a lasting legacy of love. She came into the world silent but did not remain quiet at all. Born with Trisomy 18, by all worldly standards the odds were seemingly stacked against her precious life. Would she ever eat, breathe, grow, and live were questions a parent should never have to ponder.

From the evening of May 27, 2021 to August 12, 2022, we saw unmistakable reminders of a faithful God, shining bright and in total control. Days turned to weeks and weeks to months before Zoe would finally see the bedroom of the place she ultimately called home.

From day one, she knew what she wanted and did not care to be told otherwise. She loved hanging out in the playroom at home, watching the trees sway back and forth, standing on her legs and waving her arms, getting hugs and kisses from her big sister, taking baths with her big sister, snuggling with her dad, waving her arms to worship music, and going on adventures spanning several states.

Unmistakable love breathed life and brought endless laughter, smiles and joy to Zoe’s heart and those who knew her. Whether playing with “fish” or getting tight hugs from Mommy, Zoe loved to be held and had to be the sole focus of whoever was holding her. With her strong will, she resisted her mommy’s efforts to turn her into an avid gardener since she either slept or cried through it.

Life is a gift, no matter the duration. Gifted with an overcoming spirit, Zoe lived every moment fully, refusing to be hindered by the hurdles that were thrown in her path. Her life bore witness to us; she courageously showed what it is to live life everyday more abundantly until the very last breath; VICTORIOUS.

We hope to be able to give back to my brothers family, future families of t-18 children, who just need to know that there is family of individuals just like you here to show life and support for the bright futures of families just like us who experienced the short joy of being a small part of a community raising trisomy 18 children. You are not alone!