A new question surrounding Merck's HPV vaccine. Is the media to blame for over hyping Gardasil? Personally, I think there is enough blame to go around for everyone here. But, the latest evidence is pointing to the news media sensationalizing the HPV and cervical cancer link. Why am I not surprised? Is there anything the news media doesn't over-hype and sensationalize these days? From The New York Times...

Back in January 2007, Denise wrote a post on BlogHer about her teen daughter's positive experience getting a Gardasil vaccination. The very first comment, made by Donna, noted that after her 15 year old daughter received the shot, she has had headaches and double vision. Donna wondered if anyone else had a similar experience.

Hope, it conquers the sorrow Shout, it eases the heartache. Cry, it soothes the pain. Pray, it brings peace.-Traditional Greek ProverbThis week I have been particularly inspired by the life story of Miss Jenny, a very ill and very determined young woman who is going to have as much fun as possible until it's time to say goodbye.

There was a lot of news coverage this week, about a court case of a family with a child who appeared to developed Autism after her childhood immunizations...I wondered how this might affect other families dealing with this devastating disease? Also in the blogs, is a petition that women can sign, supporting an end to drive-thru mastectomies. And end they should, this practice is a disgrace, as well as a travesty against women. And, my pet-peeve issue (Gardasil), is also in the news. Autism...

There's been a lot of talk here at BlogHer about Gardasil, over the past year or so. I wrote about it a year ago, trying to articulate my feelings on it as a mom to a daughter who would soon be eligible for vaccination. Catherine Morgan has kept her finger on the pulse of the matter with multiple posts, including pointing out that several young girls have died within hours of receiving the vaccination. My initial optimism was, perhaps, premature.