YouTuber says he sleeps with a gun after backlash over pregnancy termination
YouTuber Jesse Ridgway said he's been sleeping with a gun beside his bed after being sent ‘non-stop death threats’ since he and wife Ashley shared their decision to terminate their pregnancy after receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis.
The US couple took to social media on 3 June to say they had reached a 'difficult decision' to end Ashley's pregnancy due to Trisomy 21, another term for the condition.
"The choice was not made lightly,” Jesse said.
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“I know some of you may be very disappointed to hear this news. We are devastated. This has been extremely traumatic for both of us, especially Ashley.”
“She underwent the procedure earlier this week and is on the mend. Thankfully, everything went smoothly, but emotionally we are drained.”
He went on to list some of the health risks associated with Down's Syndrome and said it was 'objectively s**tty from a health perspective' and not 'a blessing'.
"I didn't realise 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," he wrote.
However, the couple’s decision was met with a huge backlash online, and they say they have seen the ‘darker side of humanity’.
In a series of Instagram Stories posts yesterday, Jesse addressed the criticism, writing: "I've never seen such hate and vitriol for two people grieving the loss of their unborn child and making an impossible decision.
"The last 24 hours have exposed a side of humanity that is deeply disturbing. Being called 'murderous pieces of s**t, evil, compared to Hitler' and receiving NON-STOP DEATH THREATS."
In a new interview with TMZ, Jesse said the response to their termination had been ‘shocking’.
“With the death threats and stuff, it’s been shocking,” he told the outlet.
He went on to say that people had been ‘very judgemental’ and sent vile messages telling the couple they will ‘burn in Hell’ and ‘deserved to die’.
As a result, Jesse shared that he’s had to boost his home security.
“We had a gate installed,” he said.
“I have a gun next to my nightstand, because it’s been getting so ridiculous.”
However, alongside the death threats Jesse said the couple had heard from 'so many mothers' who reached out privately and commended them on their 'bravery to speak truthfully about this topic'.
"We really appreciate that support! We want you to feel less alone in this and less ashamed," he said.
"There has never been a more important time to speak up and out about the things that matter. Do not let the vocal minority stop you from sharing your truth.
"To those who have been affected by this or are confronted with a similar situation in the future, we have your back and please feel free to reach out.
"I'm sure this will follow us awhile especially when we try for a kid again in the near future."
Topics: YouTube
Claire Reid