August 18, 2009

A new report from the Journal of American Medical Association raises questions about the side effects of Gardasil, the vaccine given to prevent HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer. Once a fun loving, energetic cheerleader, 16-year-old Gabi Swank is now on the sidelines South High.

"Football managing, more of like a water girl," said Swank at Tuesday afternoon's football practice.

A rash spreads across her body. She often has seizures, and migraines. Gabi has even suffered two mini strokes. All of it her doctors blame on Gardasil, the vaccine recommended for girls as young as nine years old. The drug is approved for preventing HPV the virus that causes cervical cancer.

"It's difficult to watch her deteriorate, without having answers on how to fix her," said Gabi's Mom Shannon Schrag.

Gabi and her mom have been fighting to get the word out. A new government report may help in raising questions about the vaccine. So far more than 7 million Americans have received the Gardasil vaccine. More than 12,000 have reported minor medical problems like dizziness, headaches and fainting. There are almost 800 reports of serious problems like blood clots, autoimmune disorders and 32 cases of death.

'These are initial reports and we can't assume cause and effect because many of these women had underlining medical conditions," said Doctor

Some doctors still believe the risks of side effects outweigh the benefits of getting cervical cancer.

Doctors say the best way to prevent cervical cancer is to get pap smears once a year.

Gabi is still waiting to see if her insurance will cover the treatment that may help her. If you'd like to help, go to any Bank of America location and donate to the Gabi Swank Medical Expense Fund.