Ashley Rx (response)

(My debate response)

As a former caregiver for both children and adults with disabilities, my initial reaction was against the treatment. My first thought was immediately of the Eugenics movement, with this being the unfortunate catalyst for its revival. Needless to say, after looking into the situation further, I have since reconsidered my position.

I have witnessed miraculous recoveries by those who were given a supposedly non-recoverable diagnosis. I share a belief held by many in our field, that when given the chance, those who are underestimated will surpass everyone's expectations and flourish no matter what challenges they have been given.

Given all of that, I also believe that each case is inherently unique. The choices of Ashley's parents should in no way, be mass marketed to those searching for a miraculous "cure" for the daily challenges that come with caring for someone in Ashley's condition. There is ultimately no "magic bullet" in situations like Ashley's. It takes a very very dedicated and loving person to provide the kind of care that Ashley needs and rightfully deserves. I applaud her parents for stepping up to the plate and placing themselves in the primary caregiver role -- many parents in their position do not. The decision Ashley's parents made, seemed to come after a lot of discussion with respected medical professionals, and while the parents state that it was not a hard decision for them, I am sure the choice was not made lightly.

Because Ashley has no ability to communicate her wishes to her parents, they have to act on her behalf. And while their approach has been unconventional, it was the best choice for their particular situation. They, after all, are the sole people responsible for making such decisions, and I believe that it is the right of every parent in their situation to do so.