What is wrong with the Ashley treatment?
Ashley, called the “pillow angel” by her parents, suffers from a developmental brain condition known as static encephalopathy.
When did the Ashley Treatment happen?
The aim of it all, Ashley’s parents insisted, was to give their daughter the best life possible despite a condition from birth which left her unable to talk or walk, and with the cognitive ability of an infant. News broke around the world of the pioneering treatment in January 2007, igniting a global debate about the …
Was the Ashley treatment a moral decision?
The Ashley treatment is never ethically permissible, except under a framework that truly believes disabled people are not human.
What is growth attenuation therapy?
Growth attenuation is an elective medical treatment which involves administering estrogen to cause closure of the epiphyses of the bones (Epiphyseal plates), resulting in a reduced adult height.
What does pillow angel mean?
Her parents have nicknamed Ashley “Pillow Angel”, because she always remains where she is placed, which is usually on a pillow. Many parents of severely disabled children explore possible ways to avoid having to deal with menstruation and fertility in a diapered child.
What is Ashley disease?
Ashley was born with a severe brain impairment of genetic cause, termed a “static encephalopathy” because it does not improve. Although she sleeps and awakens, and breathes on her own, she is unable to raise her head, sit up, hold an object, walk, or talk, and must be tube-fed.
Can growth attenuation ever be justified?
The committee also recognized that, although justified in this patient, growth attenuation should be considered in future patients only after careful evaluation of the risks and benefits on a case-by-case basis.
Is growth attenuation legal?
‘This article explores the legal and ethical implications of Ashley’s “treatment.” Although there is no explicit legal prohibition on growth attenuation, the fact that doctors are capable of performing a particular intersvention does not neccssarily mean thcy should.
What is a pillow angel?
Her parents have nicknamed Ashley “Pillow Angel”, because she always remains where she is placed, which is usually on a pillow.
What do you say to a parent of a disabled child?
6 things to say to parents of kids with special needs
- Talk to our kids.
- Please don’t act like the parents are invisible.
- Step in and help.
- Ask the “right” questions.
- Invite me for a coffee.
- Don’t bring religion into it, or make a comment on how amazing we are.
Do people give up disabled babies?
“Can I give my disabled child up for adoption even if their disabilities are severe?” Yes. As many adoption professionals will tell you, there is a family for every child. However, you may be referred to an adoption professional who specializes in finding the right families for children with severe disabilities.
How do you deal with being the least favorite child?
Coping Strategies for Adults Who Were Least Favorite Children
- Seek therapy to discover how your childhood experiences have affected you and your sense of self, what you want to accomplish, and to get help with achieving your goals.
- Tell your sibling how you feel.
- Ask your sibling for what you want.