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Recently, I had a conversation with a Mom who has two sons with SMA. Her boys are middle-schoolers, and they’re both skeptical about starting Spinraza. They worry about potential side effects of the injection, and whether or not the medicine will make a difference with them.
Both of these are valid concerns, and it’s pretty common for older kids and adults to have anxieties about starting the treatment. I also had these same concerns and anxieties before my first injection, and I wasn’t sure whether or not I wanted to go through with it. If your child is older, understand that starting Spinraza isn’t an easy decision for them to make. There are a lot of factors for them to consider.
If you find yourself in this situation as a parent, and you really want your child to start the treatment, consider these steps.
First, empathize with your child. Don’t just ignore their concerns, but instead try to understand where they’re coming from. It is a big decision for them, and they need you to hear their concerns and anxieties. Talking through these matters is important.
Second, talk with them about why you think Spinraza will benefit them. Tell them what you’ve heard from other people with SMA and parents in the SMA community. This is also when you can encourage them to talk with someone else with SMA who has been receiving Spinraza for a while. I was able to talk with this mother’s kids, and they seemed encouraged by my positive experiences with the treatment. For me, it always helps to talk about this stuff with other SMA people. I know that they “get it.”
Third, let it be your kid’s decision. I know this part is tough, but if your kid is older, they have to be the one to make the decision to pursue the treatment. If you follow the above steps, there’s a good chance that they will go through with it. Still, it’s their call to make.
This advice is just based on my own opinions and experiences, but I hope it helps. Feel free to ask me anytime about my experiences with Spinraza.
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Very good advice. I can certainly relate to their concerns. Due to complications related to my spinal fusion, I have opted out off Spinraza until a new delivery method is developed, but I always encourage for people who don’t have these complications. That said, everyone needs to way the pros and cons for themselves, and their decision should be respected whatever they choose.
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I agree Halsey. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly, and I had those same concerns as well. I had my fusion in 2005. Fortunately, my health care team has been able to do cervical injections for me (shots in my neck), and it’s worked out great for me. I know this isn’t an option for everyone, but I’m happy to answer any questions regarding this delivery method.
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Kevin, I thought the advice that you gave in your article was spot on. If this mother is a member of this forum, maybe we can get other parents who have gone through this with their kids to give her their advice and suggestions.
Great job on the article.
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Whoever has the chance to use Spinraza should use it and risk it. I probably will never have such an opportunity as many in the world.
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