The family on This Morning (Picture: ITV)

Two parents who have a child born with the same condition as her dad have been forced to defend themselves on air after cruel comments that they are ‘selfish’.

Simon and Vicky Moore previously hit the headlines after having a baby daughter, Alice, together – a decision which caused controversy due to their awareness of the risks she would inherit Treacher Collins Syndrome from their genes.

While gene screening was available prior to the couple undergoing IVF, the route was too expensive and the in love pair went ahead with the pregnancy. They have since had to defend themselves against abuse and criticisms, with some even branding dad Simon a ‘thing’ and making sounds like ‘urgh’ when seeing beautiful baby Alice.




They went on to This Morning to explain their story and to ask those being critical to ‘broaden their minds’ on a situation many know very little about.

Baby Alice slept through the chat (Picture: ITV)

The couple revealed how they fell in love very quickly after Vicky was open about asking Simon about his condition.

Vicky told Philip Schofield and Amanda Holden when discussing their choice to have a child together: ‘Why would we be any different? Alice won’t need bone construction or have breathing problems.’

The family are clearly a loving one (Picture: ITV)

She added that after having a hearing aid attached, it would be Alice’s own decision as to whether she wanted cosmetic surgery. She went on to directly address the criticism leveled at them:

‘I would ask people to broaden their minds – we’re not hurting you.’

What is Treacher Collins Syndrome? Treacher Collins Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the mutation of certain genes and has a 50% chance of being passed on to offspring if present in a parent’s genes. It can cause underdeveloped bones, particularly facially, including the mandible, or jaw bone. Ear anomalies can cause significant hearing problems right up to conductive hearing loss. Breathing and airway difficulties are also common, as is a cleft palate. Despite inaccurate perceptions, there is no reason that the intelligence of someone with the condition would not be normal, although the psychological difficulties experienced with facial deformities inevitably are felt.

Simon spoke about living with the condition (Picture: ITV)

Simon added that Alice would have what he had as a child – ‘fantastic parents growing up’ and their adoration for their gorgeous daughter is clear as they spoke candidly, passionately and honestly on the show.

Sleeping almost throughout the discussion, baby Alice was held lovingly by her mum as the pair described their love for each other and their daughter.

Their message was simple – before criticising, take a step back and gather all of the facts.

You can find out more about Treacher Collins Syndrome by visiting the Genetics Home Reference site.

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