Terri Schiavo - Let's Err on the Side of Life

October 20, 2003

Terri Schiavo became comatose more than 10 years ago due a potassium deficit which caused a heart attack. Her brain lacked oxygen for more than five minutes, enough time to cause profound changes leading to her current condition.

Her husband, Michael received a very large settlement for her care. After that, he asked that she be allowed to die without any unnecessary intervention. He said Terry told him repeatedly she would did not want to be kept alive in such a manner. He is the only person with this "knowledge".

The courts have approved removing her "feeding tube" and she is expected to die of dehydration and starvation by the end of October 2003. She is dying now.

Terry's parents strongly disagree with her husband and the courts. They have said repeatedly they would care for their daughter. Besides, they say, she isn't in a persistent vegetative state. They say she reacts to their voices and to their touches. She smiles, laughs, cries and even speaks several words. They made some video tape to support their claims.

Terry's husband and the courts have ignored the evidence and these arguments.

Terry's supporters make a compelling arguments based on many things such as constitutional provisions against cruel and unusual punishment (death by dehydration and starvation) and the real possibility her current condition can
improve with rehabilitation.

They also use a basic religious tenant that life is precious and death is god's decision.

They are right. We must always err on the side of life.