A cure?

There are controversies within the deaf community over cochlear implants. While many parents see this as a godsend for their deaf children, others within that community understandably see it as  a threat to their culture. Having a child who is on the autism spectrum, I wonder sometimes if there was suddenly a cure all, would I do it? If given the chance for my child to be "normal" whether it be through extensive surgery or expensive shots, would I? When I checked my email this morning, I was greeted with "New Autism Treatment." Oh really... I clicked to find information and the obligatory testimonial over a series of shots called  GcMAF. WTF?

What I can gather from several websites translated by my rusty Biology, GcMAF is a protein that has been used in Europe to treat cancer and early stage HIV by initiating an immune response to pathogenic cells. It is currently in pre-clinical trials to treat autism and, surprise, is available for purchase over the Internet. Some even claim significant verbal improvement of their autistic children with shots over several weeks.  But at what cost?

I've come to learn that 'autism' is such a blanketed term for the unexplainable.  Some are overstimulated, bite, kick refuse any contact and others are like my Evie; they snuggle, burrow into small places, and are mute. She has only said "maa" four times in her life and just today said 'haa'. (Baby steps.)  I can't help but think there is no one cause for a disorder that is so varied in it's manifestations, and if there is no one cause there can't be one cure. I have to disagree with Dr. Broadstreet that autism is not a disease and as much as I would give anything to hear what Evie's favorite color is or what goes on in her little world, it's going to have to be on her terms, without any side effects.