Autism now affects one in 68 children born in the U.S. every year, according to the CDC. This number has risen significantly since 2000, when the number was one in 150. Moreover, experts expect that when new numbers are released next year, the trend will continue. There is currently no cure for autism—parents and pediatricians must rely on various alternative therapies to help ease symptoms.
The problem with therapy treatments is that many are either ineffective or leave the child in a “zombie-like state.” As result, some parents are now turning to a therapy that could potentially land them in jail or risk a visit from Child Protective Services: cannabis.
The sad truth is that many of the parents who are turning to cannabis to find relief for their children, specifically CBD oils, are willing to face such penalties because the therapies are working.
A Mother’s Struggle
Case in point: Thalia Michelle from Austin, Texas. Michelle herself defines her background as a staunch Texas Republican. She has a “mom-van” and is a member of a conservative church, which, shockingly, is where she was introduced to cannabis oil.
Her son, Lance, is 10-years-old, but due to his moderate to severe autism has the cognition of a five-year-old. Michelle tried just about every therapy on the market for her son’s autism, including loads of pharmaceuticals.
In the course of researching for a way to help her son, Michelle noticed a link between autism and childhood epilepsy. It’s believed that upwards of a third of autistic children also suffer from an epileptic condition as well. Cannabis or CBD oil is well-known for helping alleviate some of the symptoms of childhood epilepsy by reducing seizures.
After much internal struggle, Michelle gave Lance a single dose of CBD oil and he showed improvement in four days.
“We saw gains in eye contact and behavior,” Michelle told SF Weekly. “Suddenly, I had a newfound hope for my child.”
She feels that her son could see further improvements by using whole plant cannabis oils (those that include THC); however, Michelle (and supporters) faces tough opposition in Texas.
Until government officials catch up to the desires of the public, parents will continue to face legal issues to get their children the medicine they need.