As you know, I take all the research and warnings about the effects of chemicals on our bodies very seriously. I spend extra money at the grocery store to get the organic stuff. I read tons of labels to avoid preservatives. I threw out all of my baby lotions, shampoo, and diaper cream to replace them with safe alternatives. I am currently researching the best BPA-free sippy cups to invest in. I take this stuff seriously because the choices I make now will affect Tyler's little body and mind for the rest of his life. I sure don't want him to have a lower IQ just because I bought him a cheap sippy cup!
Well, then there's the whole thing about vaccines and preservatives. I was only able to get him one flu vaccine this year instead of two because they had run out of the preservative-free option. My biggest fear is the possibility of autism linked to the MMR vaccine. I know there is no "scientific" proof that there is a link. I know they have done lots of studies to make sure. BUT, there are so many mommies who once had healthy, happy, smiling, hugging babies. Their children got the MMR vaccine. Their children got fever from the vaccine. Then, they were diagnosed with autism. Now their babies don't smile, they don't give hugs, and they barely respond to much of anything. It is hard for me to ignore that. Because I have this fear, I read a lot of articles about it online. I decided I would wait to get Tyler's MMR until he is 3 years old, when his brain has developed much more.
Today was Tyler's 12 month check-up and I informed my Pediatrician of my decision about is vaccine. Then came the lecture. I am putting my baby at risk of a life threatening illness based on a fear that has no scientific evidence to back it up. He suggested that I read about measles on the internet. For some reason, it's scarier to think of him getting autism then it is to think of him getting measles. Kids get over measles and go on with life most of the time. Austism isn't something you can just get over.
This is all so difficult. Am I making the right decision? I feel as though I am taking a risk based on fear either way. I know that I need to trust God to protect Tyler. Please pray with me that I will find peace with a decision and rest that decision in God's hands.
5 comments:
Yes all of us need to trust in God for everything. It is hard especially when it comes to our precious babies. Just last night I was watching a frontline show on internet and kids. It freaked me out and made me realize what a large task it is to raise a child. We must pray for them and model for them, but in the end God will protect them.
Here is a link to the program . . . pretty interesting stuff to be aware of way down the road.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/kidsonline/
I know lots of our playgroup mommies are with you on the MMR topic. I know of at least two playgroup dates where that was all we talked about.
I put off Caroline's MMR until 18 months and when we have a boy, I'll probably put it off even longer.
My ped. never lectured me. I just told them that I wanted to hold off. I purposely avoided saying the word "autism" because I was afraid that would bring on the lecture.
One of my close college friends has an autistic son, so I asked her for lots of advice when I was trying to decide.
You are doing what is best for Tyler. You are such a great mommy!!
Hi Michelle,
I have the same fears/concerns. I am in a prayer group and when i mentioned my concerns to the other moms most of them looked at me like i was crazy. It is nice to talk to you and mommies that have the same concerns. I didn't get Grace's MMR at her 12 month either. I think i am getting it at 18 months.
You are such a great mom and Tyler is very blessed to have you!
I have been wondering about the sippy cups too. I read that the avent cups are safe, but Grace doesn't really care for them. Will you let me know what cup you end up using?
Hey Michelle,
Here is an article from Time magazine on the issue that you might find helpful. Not all sources on the Internet are necessarily reputable, but "Time" seems pretty trustworthy. I didn't read the whole thing, but I hope it helps with your decision by providing good information.
http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1808438-1,00.html
It doesn't look like it got the whole thing. Just add "tml" to the end of the "h" and you'll have the whole thing, or you can try this:
http://tinyurl.com/4dn736
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