In the September issue of Cookie magazine, she's even referred to as a "Mommy Warrior" for her activism and outspokenness on what she believes is the link between autism and vaccinations and her efforts to address spectrum disorders with diet and education.
She's not the type of mother to go quietly about the business of caring for her child's special needs, nor does she waste time or space on a page speaking diplomatically about the cause. She's ambitious, wanting to open schools for autistic kids, and she still seeks out time for herself, arguing that date night is non-negotiable. For that, I adore Jenny McCarthy. And even though our opinions on vaccinations differ, I love the way she speaks her mind because she is -- as Cookie also says -- "wickedly funny" and hardcore and very real.
Jenny McCarthy has certainly fallen under fire for being the way she is. Last year, actor Amanda Peet spoke out strongly against parents who choose not to vaccinate, calling them "parasites." [Read the interview with Amanda Peet here.]
Other parents joined the chorus (here on Shine and many other sites), prompting McCarthy to respond with a clarification that she is not anti-vaccination but is against the way they are administered to children who are potentially more vulnerable than others:
"I think vaccines are one of the greatest things ever invented," she said. "I used to be [Peet] before I had a kid with autism."
Here are a few more rallying words on mothering mistakes, why she loves partnering with Jim Carrey, and life with 7-year old son Evan, all from the warrior herself.
On her advice for parents who are conflicted about following their instinct or their doctor's advice.
"We're the generation of parents who are saying, 'Listen to us. We are the bosses of our children.' I want parents to realize that, and not get pushed around by doctors who say, 'Oh that's 100 percent safe.'"
On her work as a board member of Generation Rescue, an advocacy and research organization that calls for eliminating toxins and delaying shots.
"Vaccinations are safe -- dot, dot, dot -- for some kids. Vaccinations are not safe -- dot, dot, dot -- for other kids. Let's protect the ones who are weak. We are pro-safe vaccine. Vaccines are not just one size fits all. If you gave everyone in the world penicillin, there would be adverse effects for some people, and possibly deaths."
On her relationship with actor Jim Carrey, who has also spoken out about his commitment to increased autism research.
"It's wacky-weird that not only does he not want to get married, which I love, but he also doesn't want to have more kids, which I love."
And finally, a confession about what she thinks it is totally normal for parents to think.
"I can't stand my kid right now. And anyone who says that isn't true is not living in today's world of busy moms."
What do you think, now that you know more about Jenny McCarthy's mission?
Do you agree with her about matters of vaccinating, mothering, and love?
[photo credit: Matt Jones]
