I completely agree, how great would it be for the simple and HONEST statement: "We Don't Really KNOW" whay is that so difficult?

Laura,

      Such a statement would in fact create an even larger outcry then the one that is already in existence. I have probably read every research study out there that has been focused on the possible link between autism and vaccines and have come up with some pretty interesting theorys as to how one could lead to another. In order to do so I had to take a serious step back into the whole neurological development process to make the theory plausible. What I have also found to hold true is that the APA takes the information it gets from the CDC which in turn only truly places values on studies that result in the desired outcome. Yet for every study that claims no correlation there is also one present that shows there is a correlation present and stresses the need for more research. The reality is that we in order to protect the lives of our children must in fact take into consideration the potential of death if we choose not to vaccinate at all. This outcome would be far worse then dealing with autism in my book. There are however alternatives that should be considered such as drawing titers for immunization prior to repeated dosing. If the titers show suffcient immunity than consecutive vaccines can wait until the child is more neurologically developed so as not to cause what is sometimes irreversable harm.

Chantale,

       I think what we have here is a causation comprised of several factors. Perhaps in some instances there is a genetic predisposition but for those who do not have that factor then all other possibilities must be looked at. The rate of incidence of male vs female for autism is 3:1. A difference of this magnitude should be researched more carefully to see if there is perhaps a hormonal factor when combined with that such as the chemical makeup of vaccines. It should also be noted that each individual developes neurologically at varying paces, keeping in mind that it has always been reported that boys mature more slowly than girls. Whose to say that this too does not play a role in autism. The problem I have seen in the reserach studies themselves is that there is no apparent consistency in the samples the researchers use. At this stage of the game my mind remains wide open to any suggestions that prove to have some form of merit.

I did not have the chance to watch the show on Wednesday, wish I could of because any time you can learn more on Autism is a plus.  I have four SONS and my third son was diagnosed with "high functioning Autism" 4 yrs ago, he is now 7 and what a difference WE have made, everyone involved in his daily life has made a DIFFERENCE!  He is in the regular classroom and has a one on one aide, she is there because of temper tantrums and safety because he likes to BOLT....He is one of the top students in the class, but does struggle when its something he doesnt want to do.  He was tested at a developemental clinic by 4 doctors, in different areas.  I have been fortunate enough to have the school behind me 100%! I have mixed feelings on vaccines.  I took grains out of my sons diet and what a difference, they say that grains give these children a natural high, and I believe it.  I am so glad parents can reach out to others by the DRS SHOW! 

Myfoursons,

     I for one as a parent of a high funcitong autistic child have often thought that I wouldn't trade him for anyone else in the world. We are fortunate as well that the school system to date has been for the most part has been cooperative but this is about to change as we prepare to enter into the middle high school-high school environment. Up til now the teachers in this particular area of education have managed to suceed in intimidating parents into removing their children from the mainstream environment denying them the ever so critical normal socialization that is needed. The basis behind this is that none of the teachers feel that they should have to comply with modified curriculms and the many other regulations set forth by the IDEA mandate. This time warp belief has already led to the regression of several students who showed great potential for success and is not far from becoming an issue with my child as well. I wish you and your family all the very best.