SteamboatSpringsHigh School Biology
Human Genetic Disorder Project
Letter from a Genetic Counselor
Background
Genetic counselors are health professionals who are trained to help families understand genetic disorders and to provide information and support to those families. They may also serve as patient advocates by referring individuals or families to local services that can be of assistance.
Genetic research is a powerful tool for treating medical conditions, but it is still a new tool. Many people whose families are affected by genetic disorders don't understand how it will affect their lives. Even genetic researchers and doctors don't fully understand how genes cause all genetic disorders. Genetic counselors work with doctors and families to help families get the information they need to understand the disorder.
The Prompt
You are a genetic counselor. You are working with a family whose first child may have a genetic disorder. You have just received the test results which confirm that the child has the genetic disorder:
Write the name of the genetic disorder you selected for your project
It is your job to write a letter to the parents of this child, telling them that their child has a genetic disorder. In your letter, you will need to:
Summarize the testing procedures and the results
Explain how the disorder is inherited – how did the child get this disorder? (Be careful to avoid placing blame – a genetic disorder is no one’s fault)
What are the symptoms and prognosis of this disorder?
What treatments are available for the child?
What will life be like for the parents of this child?
What are the chances that any future children of this couple may have the same genetic disorder?
Where can the parents go for additional information and support?
As you write this letter, put yourself in the position of the parents who are receiving this news about their first child. What feelings will they be experiencing? What questions will they ask? Think about how to provide information in a way that is sensitive to their feelings yet educates them so that they can make thoughtful decisions for the care of their child.
Format
Your letter must be typed, single spaced in 12-point font.
Use a formal business letter format. Templates can be found under the Start menu. Select “New Office Document” and the select “Letters & Faxes”.
Submit an electronic copy of your letter to my inbox by the due date: Th-M 2/4-8/10.
Turn in a paper copy of your letter in class on the due date: Th-M 2/4-8/10.
C. Gay 1/15/10Evolution and Genetics 3.