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Jett Travolta: Victim of Autism, Kawasaki, or Scientology?
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by Terri Potratz | January 2, 2009 at 04:02 pm
145757 views | 101 Recommendations | 326 comments
Read the latest updates - Jett Travolta Autopsy Report: Seizure Diagnosis 'Premature'
The tragic death of Jett Travolta has brought up some sensitive issues surrounding his health condition and the possible (and perhaps preventable) reasons that may have attributed to his untimely passing.
Both Kelly Preston and John Travolta maintained that Jett, who was 16 when he died, suffered from Kawasaki Disease, which typically affects young children (under 5). There is some suspicion that there is an immunological cause to Kawasaki disease, though this theory has not been proven. Left untreated, the disease can lead to serious heart complications due to an inflammation of blood vessels - and often death due to heart attack.
Kawasaki disease is a treatable disease, and the most effective course is intravenous immunoglobulin, a blood transfusion that is rich in antibodies. If treatment is sought, death due to complications is extremely unlikely:
With early treatment, rapid recovery from the acute symptoms can be expected and the risk of coronary artery aneurysms greatly reduced. Untreated, the acute symptoms of Kawasaki disease are self-limited (i.e. the patient will recover eventually), but the risk of coronary artery involvement is much greater. Overall, about 2% of patients die from complications of coronary vasculitis. Patients who have had Kawasaki disease should have an echocardiogram initially every few weeks, and then every 1–2 years to screen for progression of cardiac involvement.It is also not uncommon that a relapse of symptoms may occur soon after initial treatment with IVIG. This usually requires re-hospitalization and retreatment. Treatment with IVIG can cause allergic and non-allergic acute reactions, aseptic meningitis, fluid overload and, rarely, other serious reactions. Aspirin may increase the risk of bleeding from other causes and may be associated with Reye's syndrome. Overall, life-threatening complications resulting from therapy for Kawasaki disease are exceedingly rare, especially compared with the risk of non-treatment.
So what happened to Jett? Reports indicate he hit his head on a bathtub, but it is unclear whether he was having a seizure at the time, or if he slipped, or if something else preceded his fall. Was this a complication of his bout with Kawasaki disease? Or autism?
Many people suspected that Jett was autistic (videos which were once available online that 'clearly' demonstrate Jett's developmental disability can no longer be found), but Travolta and Preston are prominent Scientologists and autism is not recognized by the cult religion:
In the past there have been reports that Jett was autistic, but Travolta always denied it, saying instead that his son suffered from Kawasaki Syndrome, a disease characterized by high fever, skin rash and swelling of the lymph nodes. Travolta follows Scientology, which does not recognize autism.
One of the tenets of Scientology is that mental illness is psychosomatic, and can only be treated through spiritual healing. You may remember Tom Cruise earning significant flak for statements to Matt Lauer concerning mental illness, namely his remark that psychiatry is a pseudo-science. Because of this fundamental belief on behalf of Scientologists, Jett certainly wasn't treated for autism, and was likely not appropriately treated for Kawasaki disease either (especially if his condition was misdiagnosed, as many people suspect it was).
Last year, one website wrote an eerily prophetic post concerning this event:
Four years ago, Kelly got out her hounds-tooth coat and pipe and giant magnifying glass and used her sleuthiness to determine that the cause was environmental toxins. Specifically, carpet cleaning chemicals. Then Kelly used a Scientology endorsed program created by L. Ron Hubbard to cure him. And it worked! No, wait, did I say, "it worked"? I meant to say, "it failed completely!"The real problem of course isn’t carpet based treachery, it's that Jett has autism, and no amount of meadow-scented deception is behind it. He's never been officially diagnosed of course, since the "church" won't allow it, but outsiders who know the affliction well say the signs are clearly evident.I say we give the Scientology method a few more years to kick in. Soon, Jett will be dead. Ta-da!
Critics of Scientology have been crying 'child abuse' for years in respect to the Travolta's disregard for autism and their unwillingness to address Jett's needs.
Folks picketed the Travolta/Preston family, saying that their refusal to seek treatment for the boy bordered on—or, you know, flat out was—child abuse. Travolta's brother Joey even produced a movie about the condition, but the family continued to shut down any reports that autism was involved.
Neighbours of the Travolta's, who also happen to be parents of an autistic child, had nothing short of shocking stories to tell with regard to Jett and how he was treated within the family:
The Kennys also claim that Kelly and John "let Jett sit in front of video games all day eating junk food, while they eat the best organic food money can buy. They exclude Jett from all social events because they are embarrassed.""Once," reports Kenny, "when Kelly took him to the movies, Jett started to have a meltdown and Kelly pointed at the nanny and ordered, 'Take care of it.'"
"Jett does not speak at all," confirms Kenny. "He has not even been taught how to communicate. We struggle every week to pay for our daughter's therapy. How dare he [Travolta] ruin his own son's chances of recovering! We want to get the word out on this."
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Most RecentMost Recommended Comments (326)
at 07:42 on January 5th, 2009
To alilit34:
Well done...well said...you should be very proud.
at 07:35 on January 3rd, 2009
Researchers have also narrowed down a subtype of autism that includes larger growth and macrocephaly due to an increase of insulin-like hormone factors. Both of my children are off the charts in height and weight for their age despite a restrictive diet, and it didn't start until they were 8-9yrs old. Looking at a specific picture of Jett was like looking at my own son - large, macrocephalic, with headphones on - for my son, at least, it's due to noise sensitivity.
at 16:21 on January 3rd, 2009
Please look up magnesium defiencey and you will note the noise sensitivity and headaches...supplement with magnesium and noise sensitivity and headaches will seize I promise it works everytime for my son...Good luck
at 20:15 on January 3rd, 2009
I've taken a magnesium supplement for years, specifically for my allergic-triggered asthma. Some ambulance services are endorsing that patients suffering an asthma attack be given an IV drip of magnesium enroute to the hospital (in addition to the standard albuterol/combivent, etc. treatments). The treatment is not widespread and many medical directors are reluctant to give magnesium because it can adversely affect the reflexes. But after seeing the positive (and rather immediate) effects of this on my own patients, I began taking magnesium supplements. I haven't needed to take my albuterol inhaler in several years, and I think it has helped with sensitivity issues I've had my whole life. My allergist said that statistically, most Americans are magnesium deficient largely due to poor diet, and a poor balance of what vitamins they do take. If anyone is interested in supplementing, please check with your doctor first (magnesium will interact with some medications and can inactivate some vitamins if taken at the wrong dose or at the wrong time).
at 10:03 on January 4th, 2009
I am a nurse and this seems very possible to me, also.
at 07:45 on January 3rd, 2009
I saw the clips once and thought - hmmm. He was being lead by the hand and ometimes an arm of HIS FATHER. Notice that he will not budge out of that first seat in the van. But no where online does it talk about it. My first thing was that Kelly was anti drug for psychiatric disorders - hmm check out cafemom groups many there do not believe in medicating. I for one HATE the amphetamines as they cause tremendous rebound affects when they wear off at the end of the day, for significantly with teens.
There is much controvery over the treatment of autism - hyberbaric chambers, GCFC, etc. these only work for SOME children. Then there are all the natural remedies like detoxification of metals, neuro feedback, ABA RDI the list goes on and on. SO when a child dies the first this of course is to look at everything that wasn't done.
I give no credence to the nosy neighbors who have no clue what they live with even if they have an autistic child. Even in my family there are some they really are just starting to see what I go through.. Its obvious from the video the crowds in PAris were deeply affecting Jett. There are several events I won't take my son too because I know his limitations. Like going places after a certain time in the evening (one school had many events in the evening) these were sometimes have affects that would last for the next day or so)
Bottomline is you weren't there - I wasn't there. I believe there is more here and where they might have been big advocates they weren't.
I have to believe that diagnosing children at age 3 with bipolar is WHACKED especially when there is NO family history. In many cases children are put on drugs so thats it easier for everyone else.
Its a sad loss for the family. Whatever Jett's issues were he is completely healed now and no one can question that. The Lord has Jett in his arms.
at 10:25 on January 3rd, 2009
"autismmom"
very well-said. i agree with you on all of it, especially your last comments. and i too think that we have no way of knowing what Jett's parents did to help him and treat his condition, and we're in no position to make uninformed judgments and accusations. may Jett be at peace and free of pain.
thank you for your comments,
mother of 2
at 15:25 on January 3rd, 2009
I agree with you, very much.Your assessment ability is very good.I was surprised when I saw who Jett is for the first time on that video also. Thou it was fast, being in the medical field,and for those in the same field , we could make an initial evaluation at least just by looking at the patient, body language, movements. My assessment is, Jett was suffering from Autism.Parents who have Autistic child would probably agree as well. Too long for me to discuss about it, just look for the meaning and scan for some cases for better understanding of the abnormality. However, abnmormal as it may be, to have an autistic child should not be a shame in the family. These children have their own intelligence when guided accordingly, properly, given time and effort, love and understanding about the world they live in.They have a different world that normal human beings (?) should understand. I make this comment based on what was published also that the parents of jett esp. the mother was so embarassed about the child's condition.Regarding the seizures that has been reported, if the child had an attack of seizures which resulted to fall and hit his head on the bathtub, could the child be suffering from other neurological problems which were left unnoticed thinking that it was still one of the manifestations of the kawasaki disease?That is why, it was left untreated. Seizures in kawasaki disease could mean convulsions due to high grade fever which could last for 5 days or more. However, if that was the result of febrile convulsion, and Kawasaki was diagnosed immediately when jett had it when he was a toddler, then, it should rule out Seizures as a result of Kawasaki disease.
If the Kawasaki was not diagnosed immediately and it damages the heart already because of the involvement of the blood vessels, affecting muscles of the heart. With Jett's case, not to mention the lifestyle he had lived with, Myocardial Infarction should be given medical consideration also. Seizure disorder is another medical entity and should be given medical justification before anyone could affirm that the child died because he had seizures. It is still speculation until justified.
Autopsy will reveal the truth for better understanding, moreso, better education for everyone especially mothers.
at 20:20 on January 3rd, 2009
He may well have had an MI. I also noticed his physical features. . .when he was younger, he didn't have the larger head, the stockiness. I'm wondering about cardiomegaly. Some of the larger kids with autism have been found to have enlarged hearts.
at 09:45 on January 4th, 2009
A 'medical professional' should know better than to spout personal opinion in public, especially in a position lacking in concrete and affirmative evidence. Your view on autism is juvenile in my opinion, and I am not a 'medical professional'. Although if I will it, I can be your father behind my anonymity by proxy.You seem to lack intimate knowledge of your patients(?) lives considering you find it appalling that K. Preston has shown frustration and embarassment due to her son's /undiagnosed but presumed autism syndrome/. I can tell you, however much you want to believe that a parent's love is boundless like rainbows and unicorns, that all parents can at one point become irritable and frustrated at the child, however innocent, and lash out. K. Preston suffers from what I'd call celebrity-syndrome comorbid with frustrated-and-idiotic-neighbour disorder.
at 13:20 on January 5th, 2009
Thank you! These children do have their own intelligence and wonderful beautiful souls. Old souls is a word we use when describing both of my boys who are both Autistic and both are Eagle Scouts. (Also Thank God for grandparents!)
at 18:46 on January 2nd, 2009
Please keep such negative destructive thoughts to yourselves. Leave this grieving family be. It is none of our business how this family chose to deal with their son's disability and special needs, unless he was unloved, uncared for and in danger. None of such apply in this case. Grumpy disgruntled neighbours do not always know the truth. Just because the Travolta family cared for Jett differently to the way you might, does not mean they were wrong. JETT, RIP . Love and peace to John, Kelly and Ella. May you smile again soon.
at 20:14 on January 2nd, 2009
I agree that they need to be left alone to grieve but I am sorry - religious views or not - if your child needs help a parent should do anything to get it - especially when they have the means and the money to do so! Poor Jett! This is borderline of child neglect and the authorities should look into it.
at 22:10 on January 2nd, 2009
Since when was speculation over the cause of death of a child who was strongly suspected of having a neurological disorder and more than likely didn't receive proper care 'negative, destructive thoughts'? If he wasn't receiving proper treatment, then it damn well IS the publics business and the business of the Department of Social Services AND the medical examiner. If Scientology is somehow responsible for Jett's death, don't you think we have a right to know so some other poor family doesn't fall into their trap of promises to 'help' their afflicted child??
'Grumpy, disgruntled neighbors'? How would you know? They had a child with autism, so naturally they would recognise all the signs of it. You think they're wrong to call the Travolta's out on it? That they shouldn't be concerned about a child's welfare if they see something that just doesn't look or feel right?
Ignorance or OSA. Take your pick.
at 07:55 on January 3rd, 2009
Did they call Family Services? I haven't heard that they ever did. That would be someone concerned about a child. Not after the fact. Whether the state would go out is another story, but i they didn't call years ago then I say shame on them. "People don't call and then say I had so many concerns about the child."or "I knew this happened or that happened" "Oh they didn't take him to social events" Oh they didn't do this or that.
People! if you are concerned about a child CALL IT IN and let a professional decide.
at 08:21 on January 3rd, 2009
I agree it is none of our business butt the child was in danger when a child is denied medical care from parents is child neglect to different from keeping your child from school or not feeding them. I find it to be strange if a child is sick and you deny them medicine proven to work thats not being loved. Bet Jett would have like to been diagnose then treated i find it to be very selfish of John and Kelly. RIP Jett.
at 09:37 on January 3rd, 2009
Forget the fact that he may or may not have been autisic....or that his parents are Scientologists. At the very least he had a diagnosed seizure disorder. Just look at the fact that he went into the bathroom on Thursday night and wasn't discovered until late Friday morning!! I think I would notice if my teenager was missing for 12 hours!!! He died...alone...on a cold bathroom floor. That is very uncaring and dangerous.
R.I.P. Jett you are in our hearts and prayers.
at 11:47 on January 3rd, 2009
WHo are you? Do you know the Travolta family? Are you a KSW thetan? Do u think they care what we are writing about?
What? unloved, uncared for and in danger. He's gone at age 16? Hmmm
I am a parent my kids gets an infection, I immediately see a change in their behavior I take them to the Doctor. Other than a hospital where are you going to discover or have access to possibly avoiding sush a tragedy. I am a huge fan of both these actors and may Jett Rest in peace in heaven. But this theory about not needing treatments due to certain ailments or even acknowledging them is crazy. I Love my littles always will I hope that I never have to feel the pain that the Travolta family must be going through I pray that they may find peace and comfort.
at 18:57 on January 2nd, 2009
This is not the firs time scientology is related to deaths because of lack of proper medical treatment. There are some related videos on youtube and information on google. Something must be done, or we will keep getting sad news like this.
at 19:06 on January 2nd, 2009
What in the world happend to that boy?
at 19:15 on January 2nd, 2009
China, if they were involved in Jett's death due to action or inaction, such as not providing him with medication that could have saved his life, it is people's business.
Was Susan Smith's children's deaths our business? The more I think about this the angrier I get.
at 19:19 on January 2nd, 2009
All this speculation isn't fair, and most of the conclusions are inaccurate. Autism is not a mental illness, and it isn't medically treatable, so if he had it, the family wasn't endangering his life by not seeking treatment. It is a neurological condition that can't be cured. There is no medication, though some (especially adults) are prescribed medications to deal with anxiety and depression, which are common. The treatment available for children is mostly behavior modification to help with social skills. There are other experimental programs that can help with language acqusition and self-calming. Severity and syptoms vary. Some autistic kids have other related issues. If Jett had autism, he may have had a related neulogical condition that caused seizures. While it is sad if the child had autism and the family refused to accept the diagnosis and look for programs to help him, failure to do so is not a death sentence for the child.
at 21:06 on January 2nd, 2009
I am the parent of a 12 year old girl with autism. While I agree with much of what you say about treatment, medication, etc. being up to the parent to decide what is best for their child ... I do take issue with the fact that any child with autism needs constant supervision. If in fact this boy did have autism, these parents are negligent and should be treated no differently than anyone else. I do feel for them. I know what it's like to always be afraid of what my daughter may do next. It's like having a toddler forever ... except that they have the body of a young adult, they're extremely smart, and very impulsive. It's quite a challenge for the average parents. Clearly the Travoltas certainly had the resources to get plenty of help. But that is something I'm sure they will have to live with the rest of their lives if what is said here is true. But for now, I think we should all wait and see before we judge these people. Regardless of what happened in the past, they've just lost their son. Have we all lost our humanity?
at 21:14 on January 2nd, 2009
Autism IS in fact medically treatable, there's just no cure. I believe that Jett either was autistic or had a similar disorder by watching videos of him and examining the evidence presented.
at 21:16 on January 2nd, 2009
I am the parent of a 12 year old girl with autism. While I agree with much of what you say about treatment, medication, etc. being up to the parent to decide what is best for their child ... I do take issue with the fact that any child with autism needs constant supervision. If in fact this boy did have autism, these parents are negligent and should be treated no differently than anyone else. I do feel for them. I know what it's like to always be afraid of what my daughter may do next. It's like having a toddler forever ... except that they have the body of a young adult, they're extremely smart, and very impulsive. It's quite a challenge for the average parents. Clearly the Travoltas certainly had the resources to get plenty of help. But that is something I'm sure they will have to live with the rest of their lives if what is said here is true. But for now, I think we should all wait and see before we judge these people. Regardless of what happened in the past, they've just lost their son. Have we all lost our humanity?
at 22:59 on January 2nd, 2009
You're wrong, "Faith N Science." Plenty can be done for children with autism, especially if they have seizures. There are anti-seizure medications, but that falls under the category of "psychiatric medications" -- a Scientology no no.
at 11:12 on January 4th, 2009
I'm not sure if you're aware of this but anti-seizure medications will drastically shorten a person's lifespan due to the side effects. I'm not a Scientologist but I have a client who is and they are very health-oriented. As a health care practitioner, there are very, very, very, did I say very? few times were medication of any sort is necessary.
I have another good friend who through detoxification was able to eliminate her seizure meds. She did this behind her doctor's back and I didn't even know she had a seizure disorder until she told me afterwards!
The Travolta's cannot possibly know every single remedy out there. If they were such horrible parents wouldn't they have just left the boy at home or institutionalized him? The majority of comments here are very harsh. It's pretty unusual that an outsider would know what's best for our children, especially a social service worker who doesn't have a clue about how to heal naturally without drugs.
No one has a drug defiency. Disease is caused by either toxicity or malnourishment due to the inability of the body to absorb enough nutrients or the food is depleted. The body cannot operate properly in the presence of mind-altering heavy metals and chemicals. Neither can it run properly if there is insufficient amino acids in the brain, nutrients, minerals, essential fatty acids, etc.
People die of seizures every day. It's unrealistic to think someone should be watching a teenage boy in the bathroom. He likely would have had his own room in the hotel and even a mildly handicapped teen doesn't need constant supervision. It was an accident. That's it. An unfortunately accident that just happened to a high profile family or else we never would have heard about it. Tragic.
at 19:52 on January 2nd, 2009
It's even more tragic when they didn't seek official medical treatments simply because of their belief system.
Terri Potratz it appears that the Mayo Clinic gives similar definition to your Opinion re. Kawasaki disease is when the body's immune system goes into overdrive.
at 19:56 on January 2nd, 2009
Meninigitis took our 17 year old son on February 24, 2007. No matter their beliefs, this family is hurting. My sincere condolences to the whole family.
at 19:57 on January 2nd, 2009
I guess I'd wait until there was some sort of autopsy or medical report before I started jumping to conclusions. I don't think any religion is free from being abused, but how does anyone know that is for sure what happened? My humble opinion.