Fla. Girl Off To China To Receive Stem Cells To Treat Spinal Muscular Atrophy
An eight-year-old Titusville, Fla., girl born with Type II spinal muscular atrophy will be making an 8,000-mile trip to Qingdao, China, for a month-long round of controversial stem cell treatments to straighten her arms and legs and boost her immune system. A genetic disease that disrupts a person’s ability to voluntarily control muscle movement, SMA also caused restrictive lung disease and polycystic kidney disease in the girl. With a life expectancy of 15 to 30 years, Sierra Journey Factor and her family are willing to spend the $36,000 for six umbilical cord blood-derived stem cell injections, plus $6,000 for the 16-hour journey. “Stem cells are probably going to help me straighten my arms, my fingers and help me sit up straighter,” Sierra said. “And to lift my hands up in the air.”
By Amanda Stratford, “Titusville girl prepares for trip to China for stem cell therapy”, August 27, 2009, © Florida Today
Of course, we all wish her well on her journey, and hope there is some improvement in her symptoms. Unfortunately, the likelihood of any improvement is nearly zero. Chinese clinics do not scientifically test their treatments. Not only could they be an ineffective waste of money, they could also end up harming the poor girl. I feel very sorry for her and her family though, as I say, I do wish them well.
God Bless Sierra, and her family on their journey.
We met them in Tampa at a SMA fundraiser, no matter what happens, they are amazing for working hard to get the money, and have the courage to do something.
So many problems in life, people sit idly by, and only use their mouths for change, these people are doing something, and I love and respect them for that.
bless you on journey, warriors!