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Did Scientology Block Meds for Travolta's Son?

Dogma suggests people can cure themselves by following church

By Mary Papenfuss,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 4, 2009 9:01 AM CST

(Newser) – Scientology dogma opposes medication for seizures and does not acknowledge the existence of autism, a condition that many believe John Travolta's son suffered, reports the New York Post. It's not known if Jett Travolta, who died suddenly in a Bahamas vacation condo, was taking medication for his seizures. But Scientology, which the Travoltas followed, discourages medication, including for treatment of the kind of seizures some 25% of autistic teens experience, experts told the Post.

Officials believe Jett, 16, may have fatally struck his head during a seizure. Scientology teaches that people with disabilities like autism can cure themselves by working harder on church teachings. "The Travoltas as Scientologists—and very prominent Scientologists—would never consult a doctor to deal with autism," said Rick Ross, an authority on the church. The Travoltas said their son, who was under constant care by his parents and two nannies, suffered from Kawasaki's syndrome.

John Travolta.
John Travolta.   (Getty Images)
John Travolta rides a cart with son Jett on vacation in Ireland in 2004.
John Travolta rides a cart with son Jett on vacation in Ireland in 2004.   (Getty Images)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 13 comments
Doctor-Zaius
Jan 26, 2009 8:58 PM CST
anyone who follows a religion invented by a guy who is on record as saying "the way to get rich is to invent a religion" is a moron.
Guest
Jan 12, 2009 11:57 PM CST
Ok, first of all, if you READ ALL the news , you will see that John Travolta's son was on depekote for years. However it reasonatly stopped working. (which does happen ALOT bc i take seizure meds). AND if you ask MOST Dr's they will tell you if you have an autistic child, they ARE NOT affectionate AT ALL!! As you can see in random snapshots Jett was very affectionate with his family. I DO NOT like scientology at all. However, just bc John Travolta practiced Scientology, does not mean he followed it to a T! Just ike a christian or baptist etc... does not follow the bible to a T. I think it is wrong to talk bad about him during this time. They seemed like a VERY happy family & i am so saddened by there loss. I have been researching this alot (as John Travolta is one of my favorite actors) & besides RUMORS, the truth seemes to be again that his meds were not working anymore & they were going to try him on a different one. I understand everyone getting upset over scientology & their so called SINS. But i really think you should leave these poor people alone in their time of grief. I DO NOT with all my heart believe John Travolta or Kelly preston would deliberatly put their child at risk! I just ask you before you judge, READ.... there is ALOT showing what the truth is! Thank you...
Count4Something
Jan 8, 2009 11:40 PM CST
Allow me to clarify the above comment. I agree 100% with inky...

More Newser Stories

In Police Report, Travolta Admits Son's Autism

'I'm Losing Him!'

Travolta: Religion Helps Us Cope

Scientology Helps Travoltas Deal With Loss of Son: Pals

Jett's Death Sparked Fears for Autistic Son: McCarthy


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