Responding to the ‘Autism Misinformation’ letter printed Friday, March 7, I feel misinformation is a real issue. However, Mr. Arthro Braverman’s letter is ‘misinformation’ too.
As a parent of a child with autism, I have first-hand experience that autism can be biologically based and not only from vaccinations.
While vaccinations may be the cause, that along with a child’s DNA, results in autism – it is not always the case.
My son ever had a single vaccination…not Hep B at birth nor any other until he was five years old. And yet was diagnosed autistic at age three.
In fact, at nine months old, Early Intervention was called because of signs of unusual development so we recognized early (not at 18+ months as stated in his letter) that typical development was not occurring.
Furthermore, my son’s first cousin was also classified autistic in early childhood – more support for a genetic basis.
I find opinions like Mr. Bravermann’s only promoting misinformation to parents.
Even more importantly, I find it very harmful and unfairly blaming parents (as they are the ones deciding when and if to vaccinate their children).
My own choice to vaccinate all my children, typically and atypically developing, was a personal choice about what was best for them – not about if they would become autistic.
Being a parent of children with special needs is difficult enough: Blame and regret imposed by others is cruel and wrong.
Parents, be informed, get outside expert input (like E1) and make all the hard parenting decisions without the misinformation from outsiders.
Mr. Bravermann, please know “autism awareness” also means being sensitive and supportive so all children and adults can help each other grow.
Helen Weitman
Manhasset
