Autistic Man Denied Transplant

Should a person with autism be allowed a transplant? As mother to a son with autism I’d like to think the decision should be made by our family after consulting with our doctors. But I am able to wax philosophically because my son is healthy.

Karen Corb of Pennsylvania,  is not so fortunate. Her son Paul inherited the same condition that her husband died from at age 28. The only cure for this heart ailment is a transplant.

Unfortunately, transplant decision makers in Pennsylvania have told Mrs. Corby that her son is not eligible for a transplant. The key reason is that he is autistic. They are concerned that he will not be able to manage the medications necessary following a transplant.

To have a transplant is a difficult decision. Surely not one to be made lightly. Yet, should this young man be denied because of his autism? Should people with other “special needs” not be afforded the same consideration as those who are “normal”?

One of the reasons our family has followed the Obamacare debate is because we are concerned that our son would be able to receive the same quality care as his sister who does not come with a label next to her name. We are concerned that a bureaucrat would make decisions about our son’s health care based on their understanding of his contribution to society.

What do you think?

If you want to sign Mrs. Corby’s petition to the Senate to get her son placed on the transplant list click Petitions.