no child left behind
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/09/us/09d…
DETROIT – Sarah Itoh, a self-described “almost-eleven-and-a-half,” betrayed no trace of nervousness as she told a roomful of genetic counselors and obstetricians about herself one recent afternoon.
Articles in this series explore the impact of new genetic technology on American life.
She likes to read, she said. Math used to be hard, but it is getting easier. She plays clarinet in her school band. She is a junior girl scout and an aunt, and she likes to organize, so her room is very clean. Last year, she won three medals in the Special Olympics.
“I am so lucky I get to do so many things,” she concluded. “I just want you to know, even though I have Down syndrome, it is O.K.”
Sarah’s appearance at Henry Ford Hospital here is part of an unusual campaign being undertaken by parents of children with Down syndrome who worry about their future in the face of broader prenatal testing that could sharply reduce the number of those born with the genetic condition…
Personally, I’d like to see a future where all fetuses are tested, and the ones with Down’s are repaired in utero.
That day will certainly be further off (meaning more fetuses killed, and more children born retarded) if the Democrats suceed in smashing “Big Pharma” in their unholy quest for votes.
September 11th, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Big pharma has no interest in curing down’s syndrome. no money in it. Impotence, “depression”, restless legs syndrome– much more of population.
You’d need a “cure” on the genetic level; likely too like, too late for Down’s (abnormal phenotype already developed). Genetic cures may work for Hunter/ hurler, sickle cell, and/ or CF– still not a lot of money in it.
I’d also say that Down’s pt was extremely high-functioning.