No, according to actual reports from the McCain campaign...according to the Palin family.
These two diagnoses are similar in that they are devastating to families who hear of this diagnosis for their child.
However, Trig's "autism" is not a correct label. Trig has a genetic disorder called "Trisomy 21" or more commonly known as "Down Syndrome." It used to be referred to as Mongolism because of the asian facial features that children with this genetic disorder display such as slanted eyes. The most recent (and politically correct term) is Trisomy 21 or Down Syndrome.
Below is Wikipedia's description of Down Syndrome...which little Trig Palin has been diagnosed with.
"Down syndrome, Down's syndrome, or trisomy 21 is a chromosomal disorder caused by the presence of all or part of an extra 21st chromosome. It is named after John Langdon Down, the British doctor who described the syndrome in 1866. The disorder was identified as a chromosome 21 trisomy by Jérôme Lejeune in 1959. The condition is characterized by a combination of major and minor differences in structure. Often Down syndrome is associated with some impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth as well as facial appearance. Down syndrome can be identified during pregnancy or at birth.
Individuals with Down syndrome tend to have a lower than average cognitive ability, often ranging from mild to moderate developmental disabilities. A small number have severe to profound mental disability. The incidence of Down syndrome is estimated at 1 per 800 to 1,000 births, although these statistics are heavily influenced by the age of the mother. Other factors may also play a role.
Many of the common physical features of Down syndrome also appear in people with a standard set of chromosomes. They may include a single transverse palmar crease (a single instead of a double crease across one or both palms, also called the Simian crease), an almond shape to the eyes caused by an epicanthic fold of the eyelid, upslanting palpebral fissures (the separation between the upper and lower eyelids), shorter limbs, poor muscle tone, a larger than normal space between the big and second toes, and protruding tongue. Health concerns for individuals with Down syndrome include a higher risk for congenital heart defects, gastroesophageal reflux disease, recurrent ear infections, obstructive sleep apnea, and thyroid dysfunctions.
Early childhood intervention, screening for common problems, medical treatment where indicated, a conducive family environment, and vocational training can improve the overall development of children with Down syndrome. Although some of the physical genetic limitations of Down syndrome cannot be overcome, education and proper care will improve quality of life.[1]"
Now, according to the media, Sarah and Todd were aware of this diagnosis since Trisomy 21 can be diagnosed prior to birth of the baby. Thus, I am repasting the most important part of the diagnosis since it seems that this is what the Palin family has FAILED to do. see below...
"Early childhood intervention, screening for common problems, medical treatment where indicated, a conducive family environment, and vocational training can improve the overall development of children with Down syndrome. Although some of the physical genetic limitations of Down syndrome cannot be overcome, education and proper care will improve quality of life.[1]"
In other words, being dragged around like a sack of potatoes is probably contra indicated in this case.
Now for Autism...where in the F did that come from? Yes, it is a highly prominent disability...but is not diagnosed until later in life and I'm not sure exactly where McCain got Autism confused with Down's? Unless...he's just...clueless--Oh, Smack!
Below is a description of Autism aka Autism Spectrum Disorder...from Wikipedia:
"Autism is a brain development disorder that is characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior, all starting before a child is three years old. This set of signs distinguishes autism from milder autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).[2]
Autism has a strong genetic basis, although the genetics of autism are complex and it is unclear whether ASD is explained more by multigene interactions or by rare mutations.[3] In rare cases, autism is strongly associated with agents that cause birth defects.[4] Other proposed causes, such as childhood vaccines, are controversial; the vaccine hypotheses lack convincing scientific evidence.[5] Most recent reviews estimate a prevalence of one to two cases per 1,000 people for autism, and about six per 1,000 for ASD, with ASD averaging a 4.3:1 male-to-female ratio. The number of people known to have autism has increased dramatically since the 1980s, at least partly as a result of changes in diagnostic practice; the question of whether actual prevalence has increased is unresolved.[6]
Autism affects many parts of the brain; how this occurs is not understood. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life. Early behavioral or cognitive intervention can help children gain self-care, social, and communication skills. There is no known cure.[7] Few children with autism live independently after reaching adulthood, but some become successful,[8] and an autistic culture has developed, with some seeking a cure and others believing that autism is a condition rather than a disorder.[9]"
By the way, BOTH diagnoses will require public schools to increase personel and support for these children...so Senator Obama is correct--again.
Anyone surprised?
My point--McCain doesn't have a clue what needs little Trig has (Down Syndrome) or how that differs from a rising diagnosis of Autism...isn't his wife a special ed teacher and what is that all about?
Goodnight all!