It was a moment that stayed with her.
A Mother Before a Political Figure
It’s easy to remember Sarah Palin primarily through the lens of politics.
Her selection as John McCain’s running mate in 2008 transformed her from a relatively little-known Alaska political figure into a national celebrity almost overnight.
Suddenly, her family life was being examined by millions of people.
But Palin has repeatedly emphasized another role that was central to her identity: motherhood.
At the time of the 2008 campaign, Palin was raising five children, including her infant son Trig.
Her decision to continue the pregnancy after learning that her unborn child had Down syndrome became one of the most personal aspects of her public story.
In an interview with ABC News, Palin described the fear and uncertainty she experienced after learning about the diagnosis. She recalled wondering how she would handle the situation and what the future would hold for her child and family.
