I don't think that someone can put an amount of time on how long someone can be on life support. Her husband needs to devorce him and give the rights to her parents. The husband "doesn't want her to suffer," but the thing is we don't know if she is suffering or what kind of pain she is in.
Adam Rook
· 4 years ago
The fact of the matter is that food and drink are not artificial means of staying alive. When one denies these to someone, they are denying the fundamentals of life. If this case ends with the irrevocable decision of removing Terri's feeding tube, it will open up a swarm of other practices that support the killing of the disabled for minor reasons.
Also, when someone is threatening to commit suicide, which is a form of denying yourself the basic needs of life (whether that's drowning yourself, denying yourself enough oxygen to breathe or hanging yourself which denies yourself pretty much the same basic need or any other method), don't we usually try to stop them from carrying it out. Even if Terri for some reason doesen't want to live in that state, shouldn't we try all that we can to not allow her to carry out her own death by depriving herself of the basic needs?
George lyster
· 4 years ago
If this were an animal, a cat or a dog, and starvation was proposed, there would be demonstrators in the streets. This however, is a human being, starving her to death is inhuman and should be unthinkable. It will be horrible to watch and painfully agonizing for Terri Schiavo to go through. Maybe it should be televised with 30 second live feed snippets broadcast every hour or so for all to see man's inhumanity to their fellow man. We won't "put her to sleep" with an injection like an unwanted animal. That would be "wrong". Murder perhaps? Cruely starving her to death is OK though. What a world we live in!
Shell B.
· 4 years ago
Michael Schiavo is a monster. The Law is an ass, and Judge Greer is it's opening. Terry had no written directives, and her murderer husband never mentioned her wish to die until he had gained over a million dollars from the courts, which he told them was to rehabilatate and help Terry. I think he is the most disgusting creep in the world for relishing starving his poor wife to death. Many believe she wound up like this because of his physical abuse in the first place. She claimed she was going to divorce this idiot because he was abusing her, and she had a fractured larynx when hospitalized. I hope Michael Schiavo is hounded, harrassed, and never has another day of happiness in his selfish and amoral existence. Shortly after his wife's "accident" he moved in with another woman and has had several children with this person, yet, he refuses to divorce Terry. He glories in having this control over her life and death. If the State of Florida assists him in finishing off what he tried to do fifteen years ago, then, I fear for what will happen to other handicapped and elderly people who cannot speak for themselves. This is madness. We wouldn't starve a serial killer or terrorist as a punishment, yet, we stand back while a wicked Judge uses his power to order this torture on a helpless and handicapped person. This has to be stopped!
A.M.M.
· 4 years ago
I think their may be an underlying mentality when it comes to situations like this. It's one thing to sink the ship yourself, and another to watch it slowly sink on its own. (Granted, by removing the feeding tube we'd technically be sinking the ship ourselves, but I doubt the executioners see it as such.)
In the case of injection, alongside a firing squad, beheading, gassing, drowning, and so forth, the act is dedicated to whoever implemented it. In the case of starvation, it may be possible to view it as "She didn't show any signs of desiring food. Her death was her own fault," and as such, the act could not be dedicated to a particular person. (Of course, the same line of reasoning never applies to those awake and conscious, but that may be because they are awake and conscious.)
I'm not saying it's right (I'm aggainst removing the tube); I'm just trying to explain it.
Linda Meadows
· 4 years ago
Terry's real physical and mental status should be thoroughly determined by every method at medicine's disposal, by objective medical specialists. Only after such examinations are finished should anyone be able to make a decision about her. It is obvious that her husband has moved on. If he really cares at all about her, he will support the medical evaluation. The courts should insist that whatever money remains from the settlement that was set aside for her care must be given over to support the evaluation. If money has become short, perhaps everyone supporting the continuation of her life would be willing to help foot the bill. After the most accurate medical facts have been determined, Terry's family and the doctors should be allowed to decide what is best for her. Her husband should be set free to live the life he has chosen. This is an extremely complicated situation, not easy for anyone to discern. By the way, what do the nurses and attendants who care for Terry on a daily basis say about her level of alertness? They certainly know better than anyone if she is aware, or if her movemnets are merely reflexes or misfiring neurons. There is much sharing of emotion on this issue and very little of facts. Let's here the facts.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Terry Schiavo's family supports this site where you can read all the court documents directly: http://terrisfight.org
DCF needs to investigate this in their probe re: Terri Schiavo - AHCA Coverup
Information, materials, etc. pertinent to crimes being perpetrated against Theresa Schindler Schiavo and pertinent to a current DCF investigation listed below:
michael schiavo is a monster.an ex-girlfriend of his stated he told her when he was mad that he'd rather be sleeping with terri in the nursing home bed than her.and that she had ruined years of his life.he once asked a nurse"isnt the bitch dead yet?"what kind of judge would allow this man to be in charge of anyone?the judge is a sick as he is.nobody should be allowed to starve.i once worked in a nursing home and a resident of sound mind chose it for himself.i still thought it was barbaric.but it was HIS wishes.terri schiavo is not in the position to make her own choices.and i seriously doubt she told her husband if something happened to her to disconnect.michael schiavo is with another woman and has two children.he has moved on.the only thing holding him back is terri.he wants her money and free of her.he wont even allow her parents the priveledge of burying their beloved daughter.what an evil monster
Michael
· 4 years ago
The more I read of her story, the more I side with her and her parents. Normally, the sanctity of marriage should be upheld, but he's obviously no longer keeping her bests interests, unless Terry's wish is for him to sleep with other women and bear children out of wedlock.
Char
· 4 years ago
Terry's family wants to take on the repsonsibility of caring for her. I don't understand why the husband does not divorce her and let them take care of her, UNLESS he has something to hide that he is afraid Terry will some day, maybe with therapy, reveal. He is a monster along with the Judge who would even think to rule in his favor.
Shaydie
· 4 years ago
We all know that living with another woman and fathering children is wrong. :neutral: Past that, When Terry was able to make a choice, she CHOSE to marry her husband. When she made this concious choice in the state of Florida it gave him the right and responsibility to make this choice. She knew that then. (It would have been her responsibility as well) She had all the right to make a will or to divorce him if her had mistreated her. She CHOSE to do neither. That means that her last choice as a well person should stand. Not to be crude but there are lots of things(personal intimate things) that I chose to do and not do that I dont share with my parents. This is his decision. God bless
A.M.M.
· 4 years ago
I'll admit that legally, at least, it's his decision, but you'll have to admit that on any moral basis this man doesn't care about her and her family should choose.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Shaydie, I agree that when he married Terry, he has the right and responsibility to care and make decisions for her. I'm well aware of the sanctity of marriage. But doesn't that imply that he should always be looking out for her best interests? When there's $1 million+ on the line and he's fathering children out of wedlock, can you still assume he has Terri's best interests in mind?
It would have been best if Terri had made her wishes known in writing beforehand, but she's unable to do that now, and we're left guessing.
Gina Quinlan
· 4 years ago
I have diagnosed as terminally ill but the doctors were able to help me, while my illness is not cured it is in a dormant state. I have filled out a living will that in the event of my incapassitation where I am in a state of coma or unconsciousness and am not expected to make a complete recovery that 72 hours of being placed on life support they are to pull the plug. I would never want to put my family through the pain of having to continously stand by and watch me lying there unable to communicate or move. That is no life for anyone. I took the decision away from my family because I told my husband my wishes and I know he would abide by them but I was afraid one of my siblings might try to stop it. With my living will they can't it's my decision. I truly feel for Terry's family but I think they should let her go, if she was going to come out of this I believe she would have by now. What kind of life is this for Terry? For all of those who believe in God and Heaven you know that in heaven she would be whole again without pain or handicaps, so why keep her suffering here where she's neither dead or alive. Well that's my opinion. It's not an easy decision to make to take someone off life support my mother passed away 8 years ago, her wishes were that she was not to be kept on life support, we had to abide by those wishes. There isn't a day that goes by I don't miss and love her but I know in my heart she is whole and healthy and happy in heaven.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Thank you for your brave and considerate post, Gina. Completing a Living Will is a smart thing to do.
In Terry's case, she didn't have a Living Will, her parents say that a Living Will contradicts the faith Terry was brought up in, and her husband does not have Terry's interests at heart and is fathering children with another woman. Should we take the husband's word that this is what Terry would want?
IDA KRAUSE
· 4 years ago
Did anyone catch nightline last night? Puhleeeez. Michael Schiavo was on there with his "crocodile" tears. Can't everyone see through this? He wants her dead to SILENCE her. She was found on the floor, unconscience a couple of days after she told her family and friends that she was afraid of him and she was going to leave him. His girlfriend since then has been terrorized by him. If he had any love for her, as he claims, he would have given her therapy which would've helped her get better. Instead, he has denied her care and she lay in a bed for three straight years. What he claims is HEARSAY...Who knows her better than her family? Let her live!! Her family loves her so much. Would you starve your child to death to spare your time? Everyone needs to check out www.terrisfight.org this is updated daily and you can sign a petition for her through this website.
Tiffany
· 4 years ago
:mad:Ireally think use are messed up if you pull the tube on that poor little girl. She has made it this far and now use idots are willing to pull the tube on that girl. Well you can do it but i promise you that no one will come to your place anymore
tiffany
· 4 years ago
:mad: I'm really mad that a girl like her will have to die what if it was any of use
Sherri
· 4 years ago
If you were to have a baby with severe mental and/or physical handicap and that child could not eat on their own without the help of a g-tube or feeding tube...we would have a tendancy to ask ourselves "does he/she want to live like this?" but if we attempted to withold formula or other nutrition, we would be guily of child abuse. What is keeping Terry alive is what keeps everyone of us alive. Perhaps I do not like my life right now....this is not the way that I want to live....I think I will starve myself so that I can die. It wouldnt take long before I was committed and force fed. How many times have we heard of prisoners that have went on hunger strikes....yet we saved them.....where is the justice ????? All the court documents state that the food will be withheld but she will recieve what and medication......which is intervening life support ...food...or medication???
Nellie
· 4 years ago
Now that we all know that Terri will die....or so it seems.... I have but one statement.
"WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?"
Small voice in a big opera!
· 4 years ago
LONG but please read I am but just a small voice! Great point #3- if in an attempt for someone to try to kill themselves, we do not stand by and watch- we usually try to get them help. IF I truly love someone and had funds in an account to support their medical care why would I not encourage every means possible for good health care, such as physical therapy?? (Mr. Schiavo denied physical therapy) Because that would be wasting any funds that might be left over for him or better yet- she might get better… Schiavo has stated that this whole ordeal is ruining his life. If he had divorced her and left her- financial, physical, and emotional care to the people who love her then he would have no longer presume responsibility over her somewhat demanding needs and could get on with- financial, physical, and emotional abuse of another being. Schiavo keep your money! I and many others,would gladly donate what little money I have leftover from a tight financial situation to add more life for this complete stranger (as long as the trustee was her parents). #12- not necessarily true, if you are a weasel and cannot (Or you just can’t be bothered to) love and support your spouse till’ death do you part (And I do not mean by murdering them) then move on with your life and file for divorce. Perhaps he is board he cannot slap her around anymore. This is unfortunately not about Terry’s best interest, it is about greed! You shaydie #12 are unfortunately living in a dark tumultuous world and if in fact you ever need to escape, let me know-I’ll stand by you! # 15 Gina- great job, you have in fact saved any future turmoil amongst people that love you! It would be hard for them to abide by your wishes you seem like a beautiful person, unfortunately Terri did not write her last wishes and her husband does not love her! Dr. Kevorkian legally could not assist the hurting terminally ill even when they make their decision still being of sound mind, then, Dr. Schiavo should not be allowed to either. You mentioned heaven- we will all get there eventually. We all carry crosses on this earth- maybe earth is our purgatory, which will make Terri’s journey all the more satisfying and fruitful when she is taken by natural causes rather than starvation! If ever incapacitated I think that the beautiful Earth, and Mother Nature –God’s gifts- to us along with the sight of my beautiful family may be enough to keep me whole! Stop what your doing and appreciate your family and all that is around you- I am sure Terri is! The woman does smile!
Kaytey
· 4 years ago
This whole thing makes me sick. It is very obvious that this is a money issue for the husband. If he had any cares for Terri, he would be by her side, supporting her life, not wanting her to die. He made his decision clear when he shacked up with this other woman and had children with her, that he wanted out of his marriage with Terri. If he was any kind of man, he would divorce her and let her family, the people who love and care for her, take over. He is a sick bastard and should have no say in Terri's affairs. Also - after shaking up with this chick for over 13 years, isn't she his common-law wife now? Isn't it illeagal to have 2 wives?
Sarah
· 4 years ago
Little discussion is ever held on the topic of Terri's anorexia which was put the entire family (and the country) in this situation. Terri made the decision not to eat when she was indisputably alive and physically (if not mentally) healthy. The time for her parents to step in and force feed her was when she was younger and lacking something that caused her to stop feeding herself. Has anyone thought about the possible motives of her parents? Are they acting out of guilt? Did they try to make her eat before she went into this state? Were they unsuccessful since she refused to eat but does not have the capacity to refuse them now? The situation is extremely ironic and I have failed to see any of this aspect discussed by the media or by any of the special interest groups who have made this family's private trauma their own cause.
Laura
· 4 years ago
Sarah, I completely agree with you. While I am not saying anorexia is caused by her family, her unbringing was obviously lacking something. You never hear about what lead her to be in this state. Guilt is such a powerful motivator.I am sick and tired of this whole "prolife" rhetoric and bashing of her husband Michael. When was violence a solution to others who do not share moral viewpoints ie bombing abortion clinics, threatening Mr. Schiavo's life. My spouse and I have legal documents stating our wishes and I encourage others who do not to have these drawn up in event of your death unless you want a legal fiasco on your hands. If God created us and we created medical technology to sustain life, where is the line drawn when it comes to dying. I can take my dog to the veteranarian to have him put down when he is suffering but a human being must suffer through hell. If "heaven is such a wonderful place, why is she being prevented from going there?". Watching a loved one die, particularly a spouse/daughter/son is heartwrenching. Have these prolifers ever endured the horror of that or are they speaking out of their asses as usual. Death can be painless or painful but it is inevitable. Terry died along time ago. She was trying to kill herself even before she had a feeding tube. Family needs to allow her the sancity of death and face their grief. Quit playing around with what is left of her being and let her go. Her family has brought this case to where it is by playing russian roulette with her soul. Her husband is only trying to respect her wishes. Why is everything always a money issue in America? Do you know how much lawyers, medical bills and legal fees are? Do you really think that Michael is going to be living the "fine life" when Terry dies? Hardly not. I hope these "prolifers" wake up and realize that they too will be judged in the end and hope to God that they go peacefully and not die an excruciating death. I find it ironic too Sarah, that for a woman who was basically starving herself before this happened, her dying of starvation will be her demise. All "prolifers" should be storming congress now to aid assistance for those suffering from eating disorders. Terry, you will be home soon! n
Barbara
· 4 years ago
I wonder how many of you who feel it is your right to judge Michael's behavior have ever been in his shoes. You are so quick to call him names and point out everything you believe is wrong with his dealing with the situation. I went through a similar ordeal. At 30 years old I was told I needed to go out and find a nursing home for my husband. We had two children (9 yrs. and 3 yrs) and I worked full time. I interviewed nursing homes and tried to be polite as the administrator would go over the social calendar and talk about all the "fun" he would have.
After a couple of days in the coma, the doctors did a battery of tests and came back with the news that my husband had only brain stem activity. He was not supported by any machines other than a feeding tube. I watched in horror as his family and many of the nursing home employees smiled and talked to him like a baby. His eyes would sometimes dart from one side to the other and noises would come from his mouth. Everyone would act like he was talking and each would interject what they wanted him to say. He diapers were changed, he was showered and cleaned as needed, and he was turned from one side to the other to prevent bed sores. He was a 36 year old man.
I was offended by the behavior of his family and the medical staff. Every word they said hurt like a physical attack. "He asked for you today" they would tell my children. "he wants to know why you dont visit more" they would say to me.
What about dignity. What about qualilty of life? Sure if it was your child or your spouse, you would want to keep them alive for as long as possible, but why? Because you don't want to deal with his death? I don't know. I know every day my husband was kept alive, I felt as if his body was being held hostage and he was stuck waiting to move on. I felt like every effort to prolong his life was a assult on him. To me it was obscene. It was disrespectful and very wrong. But I was the monster. I was the adulterer. I was the selfish one. The same things were said to and about me that you say about Michael. Why are you so sure you are right. Have you felt the pain of looking in your spouse's eyes and knowing that they are gone but cannot rest in peace?
Would you choose a life of sitting in a bed, in a diaper and unable to do anything for yourself? Most people say they would not want to be kept alive under those circumstances, and yet don't hesitate to force another person to life year after year with no quality of life whatsoever.
The truth is that after a certain number of minutes the brain cells are dead and cannot be replaced or repaired. When people say miricles happen, they have not done much research. I wasn't able to find any medical report of recovery by a person in a persistent vegitative state, with severe brain damage. When they talk about therapy and teaching the person to swallow, that is a long ways from functional.
Please understand that it is a life-altering event when a spouse is rendered in this condition. It has detrimental effects on the spouse and children and they need support not attacks and accusations. He doesn't need anyone to question his motives, I guaranty he has questioned himself over and over again.
It is an unnatural and scary position to be in and you cannot image how alone you can feel when you loose your spouse and then have to defend yourself over every choice you make. You cannot imagine the way it feels to be married to someone who will never be able to hold a conversation or have an opinion on anything ever again.
I dont' know what kind of person Michael is or was, but he is in a situation that is so awfull that you cannot imagine. His responses are likely to sound harsh, cold and uncaring, but when you have to learn to get through the day under such circumstances it takes an incredible toll on you and when on top of that you are attacked and talked about by "friends" and family you start to feel hostile towards just about everyone. Please give it some thought and turn off the hate machine.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Under most situations, Barbara, I'd agree with you. We don't know Terri's wishes, and the husband's role in the sanctity of marriage must be preserved.
It appears to me, though, that once he's moved in with another woman and started fathering children out of wedlock that he's abdicated that role and it should be turned over to someone we know that has Terri's best interests at heart.
kennyb
· 4 years ago
I find it surprising that no one has taken the time to research the legal history regarding the Terry Schiavo case. If one did, he would learn that she suffered a heart attack 15 years ago; she essentially died but was resuscitated, though not entirely. Her brain had suffered serious damage from the heart attack. As time passed, her brain further deteriorated — to the point where much if not most of her cerebral cortex (the portion of the brain that controls conscious thought, among other things) was literally gone, replaced by spinal fluid. Doctors hired by Terri’s husband say the deterioration of Terri’s brain left her without thoughts or feelings, that the damage is irreversible, and that Terri’s life-like appearance is merely the result of brain stem activity — basically involuntary reflexes we all have. An independent doctor hired by the court reached the same conclusions. Doctors hired by Terri’s parents did not dispute the physical damage done to Terri, but they claim there are new therapies that could improve her condition. In two separate trials, the trial court found such claims of potential improvement to be without merit. Terri’s body continues to function without her cerebral cortex. She is sustained by a feeding tube surgically inserted into her stomach. She cannot eat through her mouth without a strong likelihood of choking to death. Florida law calls for the trial court to determine what Terri would choose to do in this situation, and after a trial hard fought by Terri’s husband and her family, where each side was given the opportunity to present its best case about what Terri would do, the court determined the evidence was clear and convincing that Terri would choose not to continue living by the affirmative intervention of modern medicine — that she would chose to have her feeding tube disconnected. In a second trial, brought about by Terri’s family’s claims new therapies could restore her and that the existence of such a therapy would make her “change her mind,†the trial court again heard evidence from all sides and determined that no new therapy presented any reasonable chance of restoring Terri’s brain function. The legal propriety of these decisions — from the sufficiency of the evidence to the appropriateness of the procedures used — has been unanimously upheld on appeal each time. It is astounding to me that it is Republicans who are now clamoring to pass a law (and spending my tax dollars to reconvene the House) that would remove an issue litigated and upheld on appeal twice in state court that is based on state law issues and send it to federal court (more of my tax dollars) to relitigate. When the federal courts were essentially relitigating state law death penalty cases and reversing state law rulings, Republicans correctly cried out for stronger States’ rights and less judicial activism and (again rightly) passed the AEDPA to restrict federal court jurisdiction in habeas corpus cases. Now a bunch of religious zealots are pushing a misguided effort to undermine states rights and increase the chances of judicial activism in the name of moral values. Thanks, but keep the government out of my moral values and out of my pocket to boot, and please read about some of the background in a case like this before you jump on the bandwagon that will serve only to undermine the Republican principals that the party used to stand for before they needed to pander to the right wing to win elections.
phx
· 4 years ago
Whatever you think, you should think twice before condemning Terri's husband. All the evidence shows that in the years after her heart attack he was totally devoted to her care and believed and hoped that she would come out of the state that she is in. Any reading of the court records of this case show that he loved and cared for Terri but later became convinced by doctors that she would never awaken from her vegetative state. And he wasn't the only one who testified that Terri had expressed a wish that she not be forced to live on "like Karen Quinlan"...others testified to that as well. The courts also found that while she was baptized Catholic, she had long ago stopped attending mass and there was no one in the church she was close to who could testify about her wishes. If it happens to me, I don't want to live like that either after all reasonable hope is gone, and shame on anyone who would make it harder on my wife, who loves me dearly, to do what I would want her to do. And if my wife takes up with another man after a reasonable time, God bless her. I know she will have suffered enough and deserves whatever happiness she can get from this life. God bless and peace.
Fiona
· 4 years ago
I have three daughters and a son...I also have a husband. I can't imagine that a child would want a spouse to determine whether to discontinue food and hydration of the wishes of a parent. I can't imagine making a decision like this for my husband over this wishes of his family. It is heartbreaking for her family and maybe I am wrong but I just don't believe this is heartbreaking for him. His life goes on....her's doesn't. Why is her family not allowed to bring music for her to listen to or to visit without supervision? This doesn't mean however that I believe Congress or the White House should be involved. They are using it for political gain. I live in Oregon where we have voted twice for assisted suicide. I find it so difficult to understand why the medical community supports discontinuing food and hydration on a comatose patient and yet fights tooth and nail against allowing a fully conscious terminal person from ending their life in a quick and painless manner.
Debbi Reader
· 4 years ago
The right to live or die lies solely with the individual. If is is not in writing, then she should be kept alive. Also, when people ask, "Would you like to live like that?" it's not the proper question. None of us who are healthy would wish to live like that if it was a choice between healthy living and what Terri is experiencing. But that isn't the choice. The PROPER question is whether she wants to live like she is, or die. Only Terri can answer that question. I don't know what I would choose. If I could still think and hear people, I might choose to live. The report of the nurse who worked with Terri (on one of these responses)is chilling. God knows the truth and will settle all accounts.
Bob Foley
· 4 years ago
Beware of following the philosophy of a government that has no respect for life. Wicked judges and pretenders to the throne of God who will perish with their hubris. A generation of liars in high places will bring the nation and its people to ruin, history sets its seal to that thesis. Even her religious freedoms have been violated. Last rights for Catholics include holy communion. A police officer physically stopped a priest from administering this holy sacrament to her.
On that subject, Terry Schiavo is a devoted Catholic and her religion prohibits assisted suicide so she would not have wanted to die this way. God sustained her body for 6 days without food and water- partly due to her fighting and strong will to live. Food and water are NOT medical treatments. Withholding them is murder. Withholding them with judicial approval is legalized murder. Let us hope America stands up with the goodness it once had, “for all it takes for evil to triumph is for the good to do nothing.â€
Michael
· 4 years ago
Congress is in a no-win situation; if they intervene, people will say they shouldn't be involved. If they don't intervene, it's political cowardice.
I, for one, and glad they stepped into this argument.
matthew
· 4 years ago
It would be easier for Michael Schiavo to get a divorce and sign over guardianship rights to Terri’s parents. He wouldn’t have to bear being demonized, and could move on in anonymity. Instead, he’s fighting to fulfill his wife’s wishes, in spite of all of the criticism and judgment he is facing. This is obviously what she wanted.
The government has no business sticking their nose in. Whatever happened to the sanctity of the family, or the rights of the individual?
Michael
· 4 years ago
As a political conservative, I have no problem with the government getting involved in this case. It's all about whether Terri is about to have her right to life taken without due process. If her civil rights are about to be violated, then the federal government has an obligation to get involved.
As for sanctity of marriage, if Michael Schiavo is going to use that as justification for ending Terri's life, then he owes it to society to present himself as her caring husband. Since he's living with another woman and fathering children out of wedlock, one can no longer trust he has her interests in mind.
Shouldn't the government get involved if a man wants to kill a woman? Sanctity of marriage only goes so far.
Lisa
· 4 years ago
Today I saw her husband on the news. He states he loves his wife and is always by her side. If he loves his wife, then why did he have 2 other children with another woman before making an effort to divorce Terry? I think he is a creep!
Sulfiteboy
· 4 years ago
You all could at least respect Terri enough to spell her name correctly. I know you've not yet mastered punctuation, but one would think you could spell the woman's name properly, especially given your political slant.
Woo
· 4 years ago
Today I heard a broadcast on National Public Radio about Terry Schiavo. I heard a doctor speak about sitting with her for hours, holding her head and talking to her, hoping to find some sign that she is not in a persistant vegetative state. Sadly he could not.
I also heard him talk about Michael Schiavo's attorney's deposition of her parents in which they are on the record as saying, that if in their care, Terry developed diabetes, and needed to have a limb amputated they would insist that she have the surgery. They continuted with this gruesome scenario, saying that they would have one limb after another amputated until Terry was just a torso. Then, when asked if Terry developed heart problems and needed open heart surgery, they would bring her to the hospital for surgery.
At this point, according to the doctor, MIchael Schiavo stood up and said I can't stand this anymore. I will never allow you to have custody of Terry. She was once the woman I loved and I will stand up for her right to die because she would never have wanted to live like this.
Does this sicken anyone else? I'm a mother and a grandmother and I love my family dearly, but I would never allow anyone I love to stay in a persistant vegetative state for more than 6 months.
One question I have about the parents: If they gained custody of Terry's body, who would pay for her care? The government? I would much rather the money be spent on the children that the right to life crowd abandon after birth!
matthew
· 4 years ago
Nearly 20 court proceedings aren't due process? This case has been ajudicated for a decade in Florida, and the Supreme Court has refused to hear the case. Her civil rights are being violated right now by the US Congress. Her right to die has been withheld for years.
Marriage is supposed to be sacred, between "one man and one woman," right? No government, group, or individual has a right to insert themselves into the Schiavo marriage. He is presenting himself a caring husband: he cares so much for her that he isn't taking the easy way out, and fighting to fulfill her wishes. Now that's devotion.
Your generalization about getting the government involved "if a man wants to kill a woman" is simplistic and irrelevant, and ignores the facts of this case. Here is a man trying to fulfill his wife's wishes. None of us can interfere in that relationship.
Glen
· 4 years ago
For God Sakes She is a vegatable. Let her go, God will take care of her in heaven. What life does she have, would you want to live like that. She is gone and has been gone for some time. Let her die, let her go. Who does it serve to keep her alive?
Victor
· 4 years ago
Congress intervened for one specific case and declared that all the rulings in Florida were incorrect and that the case needs more review. It did this for once specific case. What's next? What happened to the separation of powers? Why not let the judicial branch do its job? There have been ample opportunities for arguments to be heard and the case to be reviewed. Now everytime congress doesn't agree with a judicial ruling they will pass a bill or law to change that ruling? That is not right, Madison is turning in his grave. What about due process. This case has been anything but speedy, now we're going to have it last even longer? Also, the parents have been heard saying that even if Terri had told them that she wanted life support removed they wouldn't do it. The husband is the person who knows best what Terri's wishes were. I'm sick of people trying to get around that by trying to destroy his image and character, who although not exemplary does not take away from the fact he is her guardian and as her husband knows her wishes best. There is more to this than the life and death of Terri and most people fail to see that.
Cat, Galloping
· 4 years ago
Having never ever agreed with the right before, I think the things that really bother me about this case are:
1) That her family disagrees with her husband. I just think, even if he feels the way he does, if they object so strenuously, can't he back off and let them take over? 2) I know the doctors say it's just reflexes, but if you look at those videos of her moving a bit, reacting to her family, crying, it's just hard to apply the words "brain dead." 3) This is not a humane death. This is a slow death my starvation which, if she has any ability to feel pain, will be incredibly painful. I might feel differently if it was just a matter of removing a respirator or even if they were talking about an injection that would lead to a quick and painless death.
But I find it very scary when strangers, when the government gets involved in day-to-day life, in private decisions, and it makes me extremely nervous that this could set some kind of precedent.
Jack
· 4 years ago
If Terri is eventually starved to death...I wouldn't want to be in the shoes of Michael Schiavo, Judge Greer, or attorney Felos. With all the conflicting charges flying about, it would be best to reconnect Terri's nutrition until all questions were answered beyond any doubt. I find it hard to understand how a real man could live in an adulterous relationship, have two children from that relationship and then continue to assert his love and caring for the "current" wife laying in a hospice bed being denied basic nutrition because of his orders. I don't know if Mr. Schiavo is this abusive controlling sociopath I keep reading about, but surely in light of the allegation, an original family member would be a far better guardian for Terri Schiavo....What's happened to common sense ? Nobody out here in Blogland really knows what's going on in reality so anyone's opinion is just that. Why are so many people siding with the husband..a man who obviously has disregarded the sanctity of marriage by continuing an immoral adulterous relationship with another woman while his wife lays helplessly dying from starvation ? I'm sick of the whole thing.
matthew
· 4 years ago
Galloping Cats makes some good points, and brings up a few misconceptions that, unfortunately, been perpetuated on the web.
1. It would be easier for the husband to give up his guardianship rights. The fact that he has gone through all of this shows just how committed he is to seeing his wife’s wishes fulfilled. 2. None of the doctors who have examined her say she is “brain dead,†but in a persistent vegetative state. The part of the brain that controls lower motor functions still operates, but her cerebral cortex, which controls virtually everything else, is gone. 3. Fortunately, she can’t feel pain. And it is a shame that no other options are available, but I just don’t see a time when the population of this country becomes reasonable enough to accept the fact that sometimes people just want to die.
Allegations of Mr. Schiavo’s abuse and ill character have been made, heard, and dismissed. The only doubt that exists is created by his opponents. When she married her husband, Ms. Schiavo made a choice that this person would be the most important person in her life, over her parents and siblings. This has been the case for ages, the “common sense†of which Jack writes.
Mr. Schiavo has been fighting for his wife’s rights for fifteen years; how long would you have him wait to move on with his life? If it were me in a vegetative state, I would want my wife to kiss me goodbye, send me to my rest, and celebrate my life by finding joy in her own.
Sean
· 4 years ago
:mad: This case has really sent me over the edge. I can't believe that there isn't an investigation to find out if Mr. Schiavo actually put Terry (or at least helped) is the state that she is in now. I remember that in the Scott Peterson case, one of the first things the police did was suspect Scott of murder, and I didn't think that they a whole lot of evidence when they first started that investigation. Why don't they start one for Mr. Shiavo?
praying hard
· 4 years ago
I think he should step aside and let her family, the people who really love her take on her care. Why does he care so much? That is the real question. He doesn't visit until there is a chance that her death is immenient. I don't understand him. There is also a report on www.terrisfight.org that her so called "husband" will have her cremated as soon as she is dead. What is he trying to hide? I think this is a spiritual battle, and while I know non-Christians can't understand this, it is light against darkness. The Bible says: though we fight not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers of the air" (this means demons and devils and unclean spirits). While people who don't believe in this, doesn't change that this is a spiritual battle.
Back to the facts, why does Michael want her to die so badly, what is in it for him, what is his motivation?? Someone give me some insight. It can't be because he loves her, that was disproved when he took a now common law wife and had her children. What of Terri's injuries, head injury and broken bones? Nurses claim that Michael always used to call before the media caught wind and would ask "Is that bitch dead yet?" Unreal. I don't personally believe she is in a persistant vegetative state, but life is life, and God respects all life, and even if it is not one we would all want to live, it is hers to live and not anyone else's to take away, especially a man who clearly doesn ot love her.
Thanks, others??
praying hard
· 4 years ago
Oh, by the way, those who say no matter what we will all go to Heaven when we die, that is not in my Bible. My Bible clearly teaches you have to have a personal relationship with Jesus, and repent, and ask Him into your heart. I think in Terri's case and the case of those who are incompacitated, that hopefully the Lord will take them. We won't know til we are face to face with our maker. I know where I am going, do you? We will all spend eternity somewhere, there are only two choices, heaven or hell? Heaven was made for us, and to be with God, and hell was made for the devil and his demons, clearly not a place for humans, but because God is holy and righteous, He cannot allow us to come into the kingdom with sin, that is why Jesus died on the cross and shed His blood, so we wouldn't have to try to meet up to God's standards. Jesus is our standard, so ask Him in your heart today, what a better time than at Easter to ask Jesus' blood to cover your sins, "for all have fallen short of the glory of God". Jesus said "I am The Way, The Truth and The light, and all who call on me will be saved.
God Bless Everyone This Easter. Has anyone noticed the irony in her fight and Jesus' fight with the sanhedrin? her fight with the courts? Jesus did not speak for Himself, Terri cannot speak for herself. WOW! Thank you Father for sending us your Son
matthew
· 4 years ago
Mr. Schiavo "cares so much" because he knows that his wife would not want to live like she is. He is dedicated to seeing that her wishes are fulfilled. His wife died fifteen years ago; how long would you have him wait to continue his life? You and others may not agree with her or anyone else who would want to die in these circumstances, but it is simply not your decision. You can personally believe that she is not in a persistant vegetative state, but the dozens of qualified doctors who have examined her have reached that conclusion. It's terrific that you value your faith so highly, but your beliefs have nothing to do with her life, and her right to end it.
Your best source for finding real insight into the situation is the voluminous repository of court documents. Here you will find the actual facts of the case.
Michael
· 4 years ago
"Praying Hard," thank you for your heartfelt comment. Based on some of the replies I removed, you struck a nerve with some non-Christians. Keep up the holy fight. :)
john
· 4 years ago
I love how you assassinate Michael Schiavo with innuendo. Reports of spousal abuse? He is just after the money? A former nurse charges that he tried to kill her? The truth is that, at great personal cost, her husband has stood up for true beliefs and protected her from her parents who are obviously religious fanatics who care nothing for her wishes but want to amuse themselves pretending that this woman who is basically dead is their daughter. You can question his motives but you have to admit that one of his motives might well be true love. His wife has been basically dead for 15 years and he has every right to have a new relationship. Perhaps the only reason he has not divorced Terry is that, if he did, he could no longer protect her from the American Taliban. As to the garbage about the former nurse: I wonder if she was also raped by Bill Clinton. All these court cases and these bizarre allegations have just surfaced? If you believe that you probably also believe that DeLay is doing this for moral reasons and not the fact that he is trying to save himself from being removed from office for being a crook. Leave this family alone! As to the latest statements that if she dies she will be condemned to hell I wonder how that position can be squared with the attempts to imply that she is being executed by the state. Either removing the feeding tube is in accordance with her wishes or she is a victim. Make a choice. Do murder victims burn in hell? You folks need to start basing your beliefs on reality rather than the ravings of primitive people who thought the earth was flat.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Rebuttal: a) a former nurse has submitted to court a signed affidavit attesting to Michael Schiavo's behavior and statements saying he wished his wife dead for the money. b) Bone scans show broken bones unaccounted for by Terri's family, who say should be investigated since Terri never mentioned them. Spousal abuse is a possibility, they say, for who does not tell their family they have broken bones? c) "religious fanatics" want to ensure a court-ordered murder isn't taking place. Unless you think court-ordered deaths are a good thing, exhausting the court process first sounds like a good idea. d) One of his motives may be true love, but once he moved in with another woman and started fathering children out of wedlock, his motives became suspect. Terri's parents have no such apparent conflict. If he wants a new relationship, Terri's parents have asked him to grant her a divorce, but he's refused. e) Taliban was Afghanistan, but you're aware of that. The only American Taliban I'm aware of is currently awaiting trial. f) I don't believe this affects Tom Delay's ethics investigation one way or the other and the two issues are unrelated. g) I don't believe anybody, until you, has suggested Terri goes to hell as a murder victim. Some may have suggested the murderers may go to hell. h) The primitive people that think the earth is flat can be found in the Dale Earnhardt thread. The comments here, on both sides, have been well-reasoned.
Kathy
· 4 years ago
a) how many judges does it take to interpret that affidavit? ALL of them have judged that it's time to let Terry Schiavo go. b) who does not tell their family they have broken bones? What has else has Terry NOT told her family? that she does not want to live like this? c) where were the“religious fanatics†when Texas put to death a man with the mentality of a 7 yr old child? d) It's not about Michael Schaivo, it's about Terry.
This is all very interesting. The United States Congress has done little to improve the medical situation of many of our older citizens and those who live in poverty. Why should they attempt to overturn the rulings of district and federal judges? Let this poor worn out body died. Terry is already gone.
GIA
· 4 years ago
:roll: What is there to question? It is her husbands decision , the court record show that he exhausted all the medical avenues to determine Terri's prognosis, the character assasination by the propaganda is unforgivable, that he has dared to be HUMAN and have human companionship with someone else is none of our business, the abuse allegations that are now surfacing have had NO MERIT in court,they were married and it is HIS decision that's the bottom line that's the law, her parents said that even if Terri had expressed she did not want to be kept alive this way, they would still be fighting to keep her alive. This is not about TERRI for them in my eyes, and I think they should be ashamed of the spectacle they have made out of their daughter. http://abstractappeal.com/schiavo/infopage.html this page contains the FACTS of the case not the NEOCON hoopla. Thanks for allowing me to vent.
GIA
· 4 years ago
TO MICHAEL: " Rebuttal: a) a former nurse has submitted to court a signed affidavit attesting to Michael Schiavo’s behavior and statements saying he wished his wife dead for the money"
REAL REBUTTAL a)UMM I read both affidavits and it seems odd to me that BOTH these affidavits from two different nurses tell the same EXACT story of the "towel in her hand" they also both allege bizarre ILLEGAL medical abuse that should have been reported to AUTHORITIES and was not by BOTH Of them. CARLA JOHNSON
As to the charge of the money...What money?? Even the Terri Schiavo Foundation reports that of the nearly one million dollar malpractice settlement earmarked for Terri's future medical care, less than $50,000 is left. The Terri Schiavo Foundation also acknowledges that Schiavo offered to donate whatever money he stood to inherit to charity if Terri's parents would stop trying interfere with his right to make medical decisions on behalf of his wife. SO now what ?
" b) Bone scans show broken bones unaccounted for by Terri’s family, who say should be investigated since Terri never mentioned them. Spousal abuse is a possibility, they say, for who does not tell their family they have broken bones?" Well as the facts have shown, Terri Schiavo was not a healthy young woman. Her heart stopped because of a potassium imbalance induced by severe bulimia nervosa. There is no firm evidence that anyone abused Terri. A judge ruled the abuse allegation irrelevant years ago, but Terri's "supporters" are determined to keep meme alive just to destroy Michael Schiavo's reputation. Here is the deposition of the radiologist who analyzed Terri's bone scan, Dr. William Campbell Walker. DEPOSITION Walker acknowledges that the abnormalities on the bone scan could have been caused by Schiavo's collapse, vigorous CPR, an earlier car accident, prolonged immobility, or aggressive physiotherapy.
Try reading the FACTS of the case and stop feeding into the baseless claims. as to the rest of your TYRADE I find it irrelavent and useless as well as LAUGHABLE specially the DE LAY part.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Gia: Feel free to express your opinion, but play nice. I wasn't there, neither were you. I support erring on the side of life. If there's no money left, then Terri's parents have nothing to gain except their daughter's life.
I'm not on a "tyrade." Just trying to keep the conversation polite and on topic.
Chris Carevich
· 4 years ago
I see no greater cruel punishment than the removal of Terri's tube. I can only imagine how it would be to die from lack of food and water. We do not even allow dogs to die like this. I see it as a sick attempt for her husband to shift his guilt. How does anyone know if she suffers in this action? With that thought in mind, would you do it to your child?
Emmetropia
· 4 years ago
I challenge each one of you on this page, to examine all the FACTS of the case, as they are laid out by the Guardian ad Lituem, in his 38 page final report to Gov. Jeb Bush. I know that seems like a lot to read. But it contains very valuable information, that is not being disseminated very widely. Wolfson was hand picked by Gov. Bush to perform the assessment. In addition to spending 20 days with her, in which he tried to elicit any response or spark of consciousness from her, he interviewed everyone involved in the case, and reviewed thousand's of pages of court documents, medical records and all of the financial records related to Terri's care. Some of the salient points found in this enlightening document, include:
1) Terri's parents were the one's who asked the court to make Michael her guardian. He lived in their home for the first three years after her collapse, and had a close relationship with them, in which they were very complimentary towards him and his care of their daughter. They encouraged him to begin dating after several years. They never raised the claim he had abused their daughter, until after he received the $700,000 award for her care, and they asked to share in the proceeds.
2) All of the hospice and nursing home staff interviewed, praised Michael for the care he provided, and suggested essentially, he could be a pain in the neck, in terms of his requests for staff assistance. He went to school and got his nursing license to help care for her. He actively pursued treatment, rehabilitation and alternative therapies for Terri, for the first 3 years after her collapse, including flying her to California for experimental treatment to have thalamic stimulators inplanted in her brain. Only after exhausting all of these treatments, and seeing no improvement, did he concede that she was in a PVS. At that point, he asked the court to make a decision about her care.
3) The GAL found that charges that Michael has mismanaged the $700,000 awarded for her care, were unfounded. He never made the decision on how funds were spent. The court had to approve all expenditures.
4) The two nurses who alleged that Michael abused Terri, or said that there was a cover-up about what she was actually capable of, were not found to be credible by the court.
5) Terri's parents testified that even if Terri had told them that she wouldn't want to be maintained in her current state, that they would override her wishes. In fact, they testified that they would continue to maintain her in this state, even if she had to have all of her limbs amputated, and open heart surgery performed.
In fact the whole abstractappeal website, is loaded with all the court documents filed in the case.
The Doctor who is often quoted and interviewed, and who Bill Frist referenced on TV this weekend, is named Dr. William Hammesfahr. He is one of the two MD's her parents had examine her prior to the court hearing. He is often reported as having been nominated for a Noble Peace Prize for Medicine. There is no such prize. Nominees for a Noble Peace Prize are confidential, and are not released for 50 years. The Prize committee asks high ranking individuals in the arts, medicine, and science for make the nominations. He is right that two individuals wrote letters to the Prize Committee, after he asked them to. One was written from Florida House of Rep., Michael Bilirakis, and the other from the National V.P. of the Nat'l Assoc of Chiefs of Police, G.D.M. Munson, III. I've provided links to the letters, which Dr. Hammesfahr provides on his website.
Dr. Hammesfahr was fined by Florida state for unethical medical practices. He is listed on the Quackwatch website. If you don't believe me, ask yourself how many reputible MD's buy advertisements in the National Enquirer. www.hni-online.com/national_enquirer_1999.htm
Meanwhile, Terri's parents have been cited and fined by Florida for illegal fundraising, which isn't getting any press. Ask yourself if your daughter was in Terri's situation, if you would sell videos of her in her room, for a $100 "donation."
Jody
· 4 years ago
It is crueler to remove, insert, remove, insert - go to court for the same case over and over. No, we do know if Terri Shiavo suffers however, the medical community in the majority state that they believe she is not suffering. No, we do not let dogs die this way. Nor do we have euthanasia laws here in this country. Dogs can be put to sleep if they are ill and dying. People must suffer endlessly because the United States does seem to accept that death is part of life. I feel sorry for Michael Shiavo. He has stood by his wife's side to try and carry out her wishes. I have heard many put him down - do you know that he has been offered $10M to transfer her guardianship to her parents and he refused to do so? I think he is a man that has had to wait for any kind of life while trying to carry out his wife's final wishes. I have no doubt that if he divorced Terri then married anyone during the last 15 years, people would dog him for that. We do not know what it is like to live in his shoes either. I wouldn't want to be in that place. I am also appalled that some "Christian" that wanted to give Terri Shiavo water went to protest peacefully and allowed his three children to be arrested rather than allow them to go home - or be picked up by a friend or relative, etc. Why isn't the Florida authority stepping in here? Those children should have been in school. He sounds like a lunatic to me. Who allows their children to be arrested for any reason? Drug addicts and other crazies like this man and someone should step in and take his children away. You cna teach them Christian values and discuss life and death without being arrested to get their attention. That is outrageous!
GIA
· 4 years ago
:roll: Her parents want to keep her alive and what if that is not what she wanted? what if Terri did not want to be kept alive this way? I did not know her her, the courts determined that she would not want to live this way.
If people are so outraged by the law that says we have to sit by and watch someone in this type if case die of starvation then why is there no clamor to change it so there is a medical assisted alternative :?: What does anyone actually know of this man and his wife to make any determinations about his guilt and guilt about what ? Terri suffered massive brain damage. Terri is in a vegetative state because her higher brain centers have been destroyed and replaced by fluid. So what you think she is feeling she is not. Where is the call from her parents to EDUCATE young women on the horrible consequences of bulimia nervosa. :idea:
Jody
· 4 years ago
And one more thing! Have these idiots paid attention to the fact that Terri cannot swallow so bringing her water is a joke! It is pointless. These people that are trying to bring water to Terri call themselves Christians but are just reacting without taking the time to find out the facts for themselves. That would be work and too many people in this country allow themselves to be fed brain food through their television. Just because it is on TV, doesn't make it right! As a matter of fact, don't believe everything you see and/or hear is something your mother may have mentioned when you were growing up. Think for yourself. Learn the facts. Go to the timelines. This case has been adjudicated. Of course, Tom DeLay is being investigated for ethical concerns. Why not throw the spotlight on something else?
Dan
· 4 years ago
None of us here know the real motives that drive the Schindlers or Michael Schiavo in this matter. Whether he is a cheating wife-beater or a bereaved husband trying to carry out his wife's wishes, it's not for us to decide or pass judgement upon. Let him be judged for his actions in the next life. Demonizing him will not bring back his wife or assuage the terrible pain her parents must feel.
Dixie Gainer
· 4 years ago
When Michael and Terry got married they wanted children and she did not conceive. They went to a fertility clinic which failed to diagnose her bulimea, which was the cause of her heart attack which was the cause of her brain damage. Michael sued the fertility clinic and won roughly a million dollars of which an amount was paid to the attorneys and the rest was put in a trust fo Terry to pay for her medical care. the money is gone now basically. She has been in this condition for 16 years. So the money issue is moot. For seven years Michael lived with her parents and they all tried every type of rehabilitation that they thought would produce some results. After seven years and no change in Terry, Michael finally believed what the doctors were telling him and by this time, if he became interested in another woman and had children I can sure understand that. Money is a non issue as is his girlfriend.
jaime
· 4 years ago
I think her husband needs to divorse her.And think those kids hwo tried helping her are brave.I know god will be with her and I think he should deside if she dies or not im only twelve and god wants her to live than she will live.
jaime
· 4 years ago
I think the president should put a stop to it and let her live.it kind uf suckes that she cant talk and tell us if she wants to live or not.
Matt
· 4 years ago
I am deeply moved by the recent attempts the Government is making to try and save Terri Schiavo’s life. I think the main point of this case is that Terri is still a living, BREATHING (on her own) individual. Why on earth would anyone want to see this woman suffer the way she is? Would it really be that difficult to let her parents care for their daughter as they have been doing, after all they were the ones to give her life. And what about her supposedly “devoted†husband who is currently living with and having children with his girlfriend. Does he really think that he’s fooling the American population with such a façade? He is not granting Terri’s parents the right to care for her because when she dies he has a Million dollar lawsuit that he can file. Has everyone forgotten this? Her parents truly care for her and do not want to see their little girl waste away.
This just proves to me that we are truly Americans… if something doesn’t work right lets get rid of it and get another one. Isn’t that right Michael? I’m sure that million dollars will assist you in building your new family. In addition are you really that much of a coward that you have to have your brother speak to the media. And what of this eating disorder that Terri had? How much did you contribute to that? You obviously had to see what she was going through. Funny how things come full circle; we take away one of her eating disorders just to give her another one. Has anyone thought that by removing her feeding tube that these doctors are just contributing to her demise?
There is no proof in writing that Terri would not want to be kept alive, just her husband’s word and we can certainly see how much of a stand up individual this man is. I’m not a religious man, but I would imagine that any God fearing Christian would appreciate and honor the sanctity of marriage. Have we really become a nation of killers and thieves? I would like to think not, but from the postings I’ve been reading and the recent court decisions I am beginning to lose faith in my fellow Americans. Terri has committed no crimes, why should we sentence her to death???
Dan
· 4 years ago
Here is what seems to be a good, neutral observation of the case by a Florida attorney. He gives a timeline and description of the court cases, as well as attempting to answer some of the questions surrounding the case (i.e., what about the abuse claims?, etc.)
Why should her husband divorce her? Won't that break the vow "til death do us part"? And if the Schindlers have asked him to divorce Terri Schiavo (as Michael above said) aren't they then encouraging something the Roman Catholic faith frowns upon?
Michael
· 4 years ago
Dan, the vow "till death do us part" implies fidelity. Adultery in the Catholic church is grounds for divorce.
Beth
· 4 years ago
The courts have ruled as a matter of the law, plain and simple. As Terri's husband, whether anyone agrees or not, he has the right to make decisions for her...and NOT her parents, or the conservatives that have butted in. I am not saying that Terri's husband is a wonderful person, or was even a good husband. But I do find it curious that the Terri's parents NEVER said he was abusive or that there were problems until they disagreed with him on whether Terri's feeding tube should be removed; nor did they say he was a greedy person after inheritance.
Rest assured, that any moneis that Mr. Schiavo has received has been spent on his wife's care and lawyers fees. I am sure he had not benefited financially from this whole ordeal. Additionally, the parents seem to turn on him when he realized he had to "let go" of his life with Terri and move on with his own. I don't know one person that would want their spouses not to live their life and move on, if they are unable to have a "life" with their spouse.
I think many of you who are condemning Mr. Schiavo are too quick to judge. You have NO idea what it is like to watch someone you love or are married to being sustained by artificial means, including force feeding from a feeding tube. That might keep her breathing...but it isn't giving her a life whatsoever. She can't talk, communicate in any true form that is understandable, she can't watlk, do anything for herself. What kind of life is that? That is not living...that is "being"...nothing more. She is not in a coma, and many of you seem to confuse coma with vegatative states.
Some of you argue that she should be tested and observed by medical experts... all of that has been done for YEARS and years. Having some christian right doctor say that she is not in a vegastative state is absolutely ridiculous. IF there was any supported evidence that Terri Schiavo could come out of this vegatiatve state, and again have a normal life, there is NO way all these courts would order her feeding tube removed. The evidence has shown clearly that she has zero chance of recovering. Why can't all of you just realize that and accept it? Why can't just realize that this is a terrible terrible tragedy, and that everything possilbe to bring her "back" from a vegatative state. It is just crazy to think otherwise...let the poor woman die in peace... and find a better afterlife with God.
Dan
· 4 years ago
Well said, Beth. Well said.
ashley
· 4 years ago
her hubsband is a complete pig- if the parent s want to take care of her why the hell can't they??????? total BS
the hubby wants to remarry and get the $$$$$$$$ stupid pig jerk- he is the reason she is in this state- worried about her weight the whole thing makes :oops: me want to PUKE :twisted: !
Michael
· 4 years ago
Beth, you assume that Terri would actually want to die in peace. Only her husband has alleged that, and he has conflicting interests with another woman. Terri's best friend, siblings, and parents all say that would conflict with Terri's beliefs. A living will would have made this all clear, but since Terri didn't write one, I find her husband's testimony suspect given his other actions.
Ashley, that was probably the least eloquent posting so far, but you certainly made your opinion known. :P
Beth
· 4 years ago
Michael, thanks for your comments. I would urge you to look at #57 here, as it has a lot of OBJECTIVE info regarding this WHOLE case from beginning to end. I read everyone of the courts decisions, and apparently Michael Schiavo was NOT the only person who stated that Terri made it clear she would not want to be kept alive is she could not carry on a normal life. Additionally, the parents clearly (from the court documents) were supportive of Michael, til he won a judgment when he sued some caregivers regarding misdiagnosing her bulemia. They were made because he would not share half of the $300K he received. Additionally before they ever had a disagreement, Terri's parents ENCOURAGED Michael to move on with his life and encouraged him to find a life with someone else. They apparently changed their tune when they didnt' get $$ from Michael (who by the way used ALL of the money towards Terri's care and getting an education to help take care of her the first 7 years). It is really quite clear that Terri's parents are bitter and were greedy. When they didn't get their way, they went after him.
And finally, Michael Schiavo did NOT make the decision to pull her feeding tube. He asked the courts to decide whether the tubes should be removed (but he did testify he thought the tube should be removed). He could have had the tube removed before it ever went to court, but he decided that it was best to let the courts to decide. ALSO... even after he went to court, according to court testimony, Michael Schiavo has been the most frequent visitor and advocate for Terri to receive proper care.
I honestly think you should read the links from #57 above before you judge Michael to be "suspect" of being dishonorable. It is really tragic that all this has happened, but it is clear that the parents and the siblings are hell bent on reversing the courts repeated decisions that they will do or say anything to discredit Michael Schiavo. I am not saying he is a saint, but there is NO evidence that he abused his wife, no evidence that he was anything but a supportive husband that finally gave up that his wife could recover (see court documents that state how he tried all sorts of agressive treatments to try to reverse her brain damage over the years), and there is NO evidence that he is truly out for her money. ANY monies that he received from the lawsuit he brought have long been spent on Terri's care through a trust fund he set up upon receiving the award. Her trust has less that $50k left in it for her care... so the he is out for her money is clearly ridiculious).
thanks for listening...
Beth
· 4 years ago
Thanks Dan... since reading all of this page, I find the facts stated in the court documents (you can get them all from the links in #57 above)is very compelling. It truly shows that Michael Schiavo is not the greedy, unfeeling loser husband that Terri's family has made him out to be.
The records show that he has spent nearly all he was awarded in a lawsuit towards her care. The little that is left (about 50K) is still in trust and goes towards the cost of Terri's medical expenses... so the claims that Terri's brother is making on all the talk shows is completely false.
Court records also state that there is evidence to support that Michael Schiavo has spent more time caring and visiting Terri that any other person, including her "loving" parents or siblings. They also indicate that that parents and Michael lived together for the first several years after Terri's heart attack occured. The parents encouraged Michael to move on with his life, and they encouraged him to seek another mate. They were supportive of him completely until they asked him for half of the monies he sued for malpractice against doctors that misdiagnosed Terri befor her heart attack. Then they said he was keeping money from them, and then they said he was abusive and cheated on her. How does one cheat on someone that is in a vegastative state, when the parents told him he should move on?
This whold case is a terrible tragedy. I mourn for ALL parties, including the parents. It is heartbreaking that their daughter is irriversably brain dead, and that she has no life other than "being" and I am sure that is very hard to live with... and I feel sorry that they have chosen to drag out their misery and drag Michael through the mud to make him look like he is a murderer. The fact is he asked the courts to decide whether to pull the feeding tube. It had to be the most difficult thing to a spouse has to endure...to admit there is nothing left that can be done for your wife and ask the courts to make the decision as to what is best. The courts have spoken LOUD and CLEAR>>> OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
My only question is why are people so quick to judge without educating themselves with the FACTS and the court transcripts? Or to judge people without walking a mile in their shoes? I just fail to understand that...
Dan
· 4 years ago
"her hubsband is a complete pig....the hubby wants to remarry and get the $$$$$$$$ stupid pig jerk"
Opinion.
"he is the reason she is in this state- worried about her weight"
Prove it.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Beth, I'm not disagreeing with you. I would point out, though, that the links in #57 are written from the guardian's point of view and who Terri's parents feel is not representing Terri's best interests either. Although those links are filed with the court, they differ in opinion from those listed at Terri's Fight.
I would also point out that it is difficult to simultaneously accuse Terri's parents of doing this for the money while at the same time claiming there is no money left.
Dan
· 4 years ago
Don't you think there might be a little bias at work at the Terri's Fight website? You can probably expect all the court venues to have little bias, if any.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Well, yeah, I do expect bias. They're trying to save their daughter's life.
Dan
· 4 years ago
Then why reference them as a factual source of information?
Michael
· 4 years ago
Er. I pointed out that both are biased in opposite directions. The only objective viewpoint would be a Living Will which of course does not exist. Since the whole thing hinges on the statementment of an adulterous husband, I prefer to err on the side of life instead of the side of death.
Dan
· 4 years ago
So would I, brother, but it's not my decision. It's up to the Florida state courts and their decisions have been pretty clear so far.
I've blasted my congressman via email for politicizing the issue and for federal intervention in state affairs. As a Conservative it galls me to no end that this sad case is being used to pander to a voting bloc.
At the very least, I've started drawing up an advance directive.
Michael
· 4 years ago
And that's the biggest problem I have - the whole issue about whether to remove her feeding tube is based on his biased and uncorroborated statement that Terri would want to die. All of the court opinions hinge on that statement.
Dan
· 4 years ago
Uncorroborated statement? The court's firding on that matter (link) says otherwise.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Correction noted. Make that "disputed."
Beth
· 4 years ago
Michael, When I sited #57 above, I was referring to the actual court documents. I read ALL of this info, and that is where my comments have come from. AND Michael Schiavo is NOT the only person who had heard comments from Terri Schiavo saying she would not want anyone to keep her alive if she could not take care of herself. There were others that testified to her wishes as well.
Besides, you are calling Michael Schiavo adulterous... and according to the court documents, and earlier reports, Terri's parents ENCOURAGED Michael to start life anew BEFORE he moved out (they all moved in together for several years after Terri's heart attack). Court documents also showed that at the beginning the parents wanted Michael to be Terri's legal guardian (as he should be as her husband). This was before there were ANY legal disputes about pulling the feeding tube. They encouraged him to divorce his wife before the question of taking the tube out, and before he sued the doctors who mis-diagnosed Terry Schiavo. Therefore, I think it is hardly a case of Michael Schiavo committing adultery. And I still question how he is an adulterer when the poor woman is a being and not living? And when her parents told him he should move on and find happiness???
Also, according to doctors and medical professional's testimony, even after the initial court case where Michael Schiavo asked the courts to decide (and I stress he asked them the court to decide) it was reported to the court that Michael Schiavo was Terri's most frequent visitor, visiting more than her parents or siblings. He was very much apart of rehabilitative efforts. According to the judges' opinion, Michael Schiavo did everything he could to revive his wife, and even went to school to become a medical professional that could help care for his wife. He also took her to California for aggressive therapy to try to help her come back to life... Additionally, it was not until Michael Schiavo successfully sued Terri's doctors, that the parents of Terri Schiavo made any accusations (and that is all they are, accusations and hearsay) started a smear campaign that he was an adulterer after inheritance. They sued to try to get him to give them some of the proceeds of the amount the settlement. Michael put all the money in trust to take care of Terri Schiavo...so he wasn't being greedy like the brother has been stating in all the talk shows this week. The brother failed to mention ALL of the proceeds went to Terri's care and that there is only $50k left.
I find it very interesting how the parents turned on Michael Schiavo AFTER he sued the doctors and he didn't give them any money he was awarded. BEFORE that lawsuit, they encouraged him to make a life for himself... THEN he wins a lawsuit, continues to care for her... goes to school to become a medical professional to help take care of her. His "mistake" is that he A) met someone and fell in love and B).and not paying them off part of the settlement. Terri's family accuses him of being a creep who wants to kill his wife and is sleeping with another woman.... ONLY after they didn't get money. Only after he asked the COURT to decide if the feeding tube should be removed...
I feel for all of them... but whatthe parents of Terri Schiavo have done is just terrible... keeping their daughter alive when she has no life and dragging this on and on...and smearing Michael Schiavo looks like pure and simple vindictiveness because they didn't get to "control" everything.
GIA
· 4 years ago
MIchael: Schiavos parents and Mr. Schiavo had a falling out when he refused to share the 300 k that he was awarded for his loss. FACTS OF CASE You know who really benefits from trying to force Terri to live in this condition , THE LAWYERS.
Joe
· 4 years ago
My heart goes out to her parents. Terri left them twelve years ago and they are still in denial - they will never, ever have their daughter back - which is a really sad thing but their delisional beliefs that Terri is somehow with us is false. She's gone. She's been gone and it's time for the family to realize it. If you have any sympathy at all you'll release her body from this torture and let it join her soul which has already been at rest for 12 years.
And if you are all so sad about people starving to death, send some money to your local food pantry or to the people in Africa who are really starving.
adrien burke
· 4 years ago
As I recall, the only admissible grounds for annulment in the Catholic church is the inability of one partner to fulfill cunjugal duties or, in some cases, lack of solemn rite (not married in the church). But the Catholic Church doesn't forbid divorce - it forbids REMARRIAGE after a divorce. If an annulment is obtained through the church, the marriage never existed in the church's eyes, and one is free to marry.
I believe people have a right not to live in a vegetative state, and to have their wishes respected. I also believe that if Terri is in such a state, she will not suffer if she is allowed to die.
But her husband abandoned her, and has no right in this case to make any decision for her. Their marriage is, in my opinion, a legal fiction, and it is a sad remnant of patr4iarchy that allows him this power over his 'wife.'
Beth
· 4 years ago
Gosh, I keep reading more and more of your comments here, and I am truly appauled that most of you are siding with Terri's parents. First of all, NONE of the allegations you are making are proven. Everything you are saying regarding Michael wanting Terri's inheritance, not caring about her, etc.
THE FACTS speak for themselves. THE COURT DOCUMENTS prove that Michael Schiavo used money he was awarded in a lawsuit, and NOT an inheritance to take care of Terri Schiavo. He put $700K in trust, of which only about $50K is left. THERE IS NO INHERITANCE... that is total and complete nonsense.
The court documents also state that Michael Schiavo was awarded $300k for his suffering. Terri's parents wanted Michael Schiavo to split it with them. And he declined to do so. UNTIL that point, they all lived together. Until that point, they encouraged him to start a new life. DESPITE all of this that is document, you all accuse him of being an adulterer and money grubbing jerk. IT IS THE PARENTS that were greedy and wanted the MONEY. THEY NEVER disagreed with Michael Schiavo til he said that it was his lawsuit, and his award. THE parents SUPPORTED Michael to be the guardian and ONLY asked for that to be changed after his lawsuit.
Additionally, if Michael Schiavo is so cold blooded why didn't he have her tube pulled long before he asked the COURT to decide what was best? He could have EASILY had her tube taken out YEARS ago. If he was cold blooded why did he get an education in the medical field solely to try to care for his wife? Why did the homes and hospice she was in say he was a pain in the butt for complaining about the treatment/care Terri was receiving? Why did he put money ($700K) in trust to care for Terri? Why did he do all those things? Because he CARED people.
All of you that are casting your stones are lobbing them in the wrong direction. Read the court documents for the FACTS. And for all you "christians"...and I use that word loosely, you should be ashamed that you are using religion to condemn Michael Schiavo.
Her parents encouraged him to move on with another woman and start a life. They encouraged him to divorce her (as supposedly good catholics). I think that is very hypocrytical. Especially since they asked him to do this in the midst of his lawsuit... I personally smell their greed here... get divorce, give us custody and give us money. They had NO legal rights at all and tried to get laws changed by the fed. gov't... don't you all see how dangerous that was and will be now? Terri's parents really have created a firestorm of controversy...and it will effect us all from now on since big brother wants to control us... so much for the republican stance to take big gov't out of our lives and give states control of what happens in their states...
I just don't get how you condemn Michael Schiavo when evidence shows he has done everything for his wife... and has been very humane to her. Keeping her alive is cruel and unproductive... she has no life...she is a 'being"...no thoughts, no feelings, no pain. What kind of life is that? NONE!
Michael
· 4 years ago
Beth, from my perspective it appears you are arguing from the results and going backward. In other words, it appears you think Terri should die, so your opinions all slant the same way to support your conclusion.
My position is: I think it should be left up to Terri. And since I don't believe Terri's wishes are clear, we should err on the side of life. The idea of government-sanctioned taking of innocent but inconvenient life appalls me.
For instance, when Terri's parents and Michael were caring for Terri, of course they told him they'd want him to move on. After it was all over. They probably do not have such loving hopes for him since they believe he is trying to kill their daughter. And yes, they have since asked him to divorce their daughter. Even Catholics would choose divorce over murder. And regardless of whether you think they they gave him permission, he's still involved in an adulterous affair.
Condemning Christians because we want to be careful before an innocent life is ended strikes me as unusual. We hold this position because we hold human life to be sacred. Is that something worth condemning?
1) What if Terri really wanted to live? 2) If there's no money left, why do Terri's parent want her to live, except for the fact they love their daughter?
Beth
· 4 years ago
I have no doubt whatsoever that Terri's parents love her... none whatsoever. But, they are not her guardians... and the court has determined that there was evidence (not just her husband saying so) that she did not want to live in a coma/vegatative state.
I respect your thoughts on the sanctity of life... I truly do. And no, I don't wish to see Terri die, but don't you understand she is NOT living, and is just a being that is breathing. How is she alive? She has no brain function, cannot do or say anything, and the doctors say she has no feelings/thoughts.
By the way, I am a practicing Catholic. I don't condemn all Catholics or Christians. But I do condemn those who use "christian" principles for their arguments here. I do condemn those who use tragedies like these to push their agendas and to push their conservative lawmakers to break public trust by changing laws to suit their own politic agendas. If you think these lawmakers that have any real feelings for Terri Schiavo or her parents, you are sadly mistaken. They see her case as an ends to a means...to win more votes with conservatives in upcoming elections... and that truly makes me sick. Terri Schiavo is nothing more than a pawn. How can you NOT see that???
The decent human thing to do is to let her go, and the court recognizes that Terri is not able to have a real life. It is sad that all this has happened, and you might not think I am compassionate for my stance, but I have a lot of compassion... MOSTLY for Terri. It is truly unfortunate that her wishes were not recorded in writing. But since there isn't, the court has deemed it to be appropriate to remove Terri's feeding tube.
What has appauled me the most is that Michael Schiavo has been made out to be a culprit. The court documents clearly state that Terri's parents told him to move on well before any of these court hearings, and while he was still living with them. They only started saying he was a cheat and didn't love their daughter and was after inheritance (and it turns out not to be an inheritance at all, but a settlement with the doctors who mis-diagnosed Terri to begin with) when Michael Schiavo asked the courts to determine if Terri should remain or be removed from her feeding tube.
I don't see how you can honestly say he is cheating when his wife is NOT alive or living a real life. It is a matter of symantics here. Terri Schiavo may be breathing, but she hasn't "lived" in over 15 years... The facts show that although Michael Schiavo is in a loving relationship with another woman now, and has children by her, he spent many years trying to get Terri treatments to reverse her brain damage. He went to school to become certified to help care for her and set up a trust fund to take care of her medical bills. He has visited her more than anyone else including her parents. That hardly sounds like a man who is trying to "murder" his wife. He simply has done everything he can to help her...and to no avail. He simply wants to let her go since he could not help her "live" a normal life.
Oh, one more thing Michael, I had a parent who was in a vegatative state... and it was heart breaking. My mother did not have a living will either. We watched and waited...watched and waited. My mother was very vibrant woman and was always on the go. To watch her in that state and not have any abilities to communicate or be productive was heart wrenching... her five children all decided together that she should be allowed to be let go after many hours of prayer and consultation with our priests. It was not an overnight decision. I am just grateful in the end we all agreed that our mother was not able to overcome her illness and that to allow her to remain helpless and lifeless was the wrong thing to do. And you know what, I feel confident (along with my siblings) that my mother is a much better place now and not suffering or living a shell of a life which she would of hated.
I know it is hard to let go...trust me, I was only 23 years old when we had to let our mother go...it was one of the hardest, if not the hardest decision of my life. And I am sure it is the hardest thing that Michael and her parents will have to deal with for the rest of their lives (for different reasons). The what ifs will always be present for both sides of the fence.
I just pray that once Terri have left this life, she can live again with God in peace, with no one fighting over for control over her life. And I hope that Terri's parents and family can move on too... and rejoice the life Terri once had before she was stricken by her heart attack.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Matthew and Victor are completely right...read #39 and #41... I just am dumbfounded by all of those that are trying to take Terri Schiavo's rights away. Her husband, whether you like him or not is her guardian. He asked the courts to decide (he himself did not make the decision). For over 10 years the courts have repeatedly said let her go and agreed she had no chance at a real life. Keeping her on a feeding tube is not keeping her "alive." She is only a vessel for others to use for their own purposes.
It is sickening to me that the federal government and President George Dubbya Bush have tried to intervene in this issue. Do most of you not realize that this is a form of them trying to control all facets of law in our country? Does this mean that every time the right doesn't agree with the rest of us, that they will manipulate the laws of our land to get their agenda across?
Michael
· 4 years ago
I respect your opinion, Beth, but I choose not to play God, choose not to support a government sanctioned killing. And while I very much respect the sanctity of marriage, I respect the sanctity of life more. Again I ask - what if Terri would not want to be killed this way?
And I disagree with you about Michael's adulterous relationship. If that's where his heart is, fine, but he should reliquish his control to Terri's parents.
If Terri had a Living Will, perhaps I'd feel different. The amatuer psychologist in me would suggest that you support Terri's death as a justification that you did the right thing by your mother. In your case, though, the family all agreed. In Terri's case, they do not.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Michael... you are saying that it is killing, and that is very disturbing to me because they are not "killing her", they are no longer assisting her in living.
I still don't see how you can say Michael is an adulterer. He has never hid behind any veils. Terri's parents and everyone that was close to him told him to move on with his life well before there were any arguments about whether her feeding tube should be removed. They encouraged him to find someone, yet they condemn him for it now... and they did not do so until they disagreed on Terri's care.
Besides you keep forgeting one thing, the COURT decided Terri's fate. Even if Michael Schiavo changed his mind, once he asked the courts to decide what was in the best interest of his wife, he didn't have a right to chose for her anymore. He may be Terri's guardian, but that does not change any of the rulings.
As far as it goes with my mother, we didn't all agree for quite awhile... and agreeing made it no easier. Besides which many of her siblings did NOT agree with it. It is the hardest thing one has to do,to let go of a loved one. And you are wrong about me having to justify myself... I have absolutely nothing to feel guilty about. My mom was not living when she died.
And how do you know that God isn't directing all of this that is happening? If God is so powerful, and can control anything or any part of our lives, how do you know he didn't orchestrate this outcome? I just wish you would learn more about this case before you condemn Michael Schiavo. I am not saying he is a perfect person, because NONE of us are... far from it. But I think he is not the terrible person you have made him out to be. He has stood by her all these years when it would have been easier to walk away and wash his hands of all of this mess. Instead, he has fought for Terri's right to die. What does he have to gain from all of this? He has spent years dealing with this mess... it sure would have been a lot easier to sign papers over, and let the parents take responsibility. He didn't do that because he was honoring Terri's wishes. Perhaps Terri was not nearly as religious as her parents claim, or perhaps they didn't really know her wishes.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Well, you're redefining the language to suit you now, so we're not going to agree. It *is* adultery. It *is* killing her. You say her parents are greedy, yet say there's no money. You justify all of Michael's actions to suit your argument, while ignoring the things he does that are not in Terri's best interests such as withholding medicine, refusing to allow pictures, not permitting stimulation like TV or being outdoors. And I know what the court decided; I believe the court is wrong. Most of the susequent decisions are right, but they are all based on assuming Terri would want to die which I don't believe has been established reliabily. And since only good things come from God, we're not even going to agree on what God would want. Your argument is full of "perhaps Terri this" and "perhaps Terri's parents said that," so you're admitting you cannot know yet refuse to consider you might be wrong. And you might be wrong.
So we're not going to agree. Take care.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Your right we disagree. But when I said Terri's parents were motivated by money, if I didn't make it clear, they were motivated in the beginning for it since they started the fight as soon as Michael was awarded monies and he didn't share it with them. That is when they had their initial falling out. And they continue to say he was motivated by his "inheritance" when there wasn't any inheritance, but a settlement.
I agree you are right, I have no idea what Terri wanted. That is not the main point. The courts stated that they think there was sufficient evidence that she didn't want to live if she could not have a *life*. It is Michael and his witnesses vs. Terri's parents and their witnesses.
You keep condemning Michael, when you should be condemning the court because you don't agree with their decision. Michael gave his right away to decide by asking the court to decide for him. If you don't agree with the courts rulings, I respect that. But it seems unfair and unreasonable that you are condemning her husband. In lieu of a living will, it is reasonable for the court to look to the husband, and not to the parents as the best source of what Terri's wishes were.
Really in the end, our opinions don't really mean all that much. God will decide in the end if this was handled correctly and everyone will be held accountable for their actions regardless of what we think and feel.
In any event my prayers are with all concerned in this tragedy.
Michael
· 4 years ago
I don't condemn the courts. They upheld the law. I condemn bad law that prohibits Terri's parents from voluntarily caring for their daughter. And I condemn the initial decision based on Michael's hearsay testimony. I do not believe Michael is an impeachable source of what Terri would have wanted.
GIA
· 4 years ago
......."while ignoring the things he does that are not in Terri’s best interests such as withholding medicine, refusing to allow pictures, not permitting stimulation like TV or being outdoors."
Tell me Michael where is your evidence for the above allegations ? How are these allegations substanciated and supported ? You are ignoring the factthat none of the "allegations" against Michael have been shown in court to have any veracity. Have you read the Report from the Guardian that was appointed to Terri or are you IGNORING that>? By the way its not what HER parents want that matters.
Lisa
· 4 years ago
It's a lose/lose situation. One cannot help feeling confusion and anger over Michael's seemingly heartlessness and selfishness, as well as sadness over Terri's predicament. If Terri passes away due to the result of dehydration and starvation, I really think that some folks are going to go after Michael with a murder warrant. I cannot say that I would totally disagree. We live in a patriarchial society -- culturally and legally. Terri's adulturous husband has more rights and a louder voice than her parents. I think her parents should be packing more of a punch. They need to raise holy hell if they really want this to come out in their favor!
Michael
· 4 years ago
I'm ignoring nothing, and I read the Guardian. When Terri had an infection years ago and refused antibiotics for her, that started the fued between Terri's parents and Michael. The court allows Michael to prohibit pictures of Terri, allows Michael to supervise the visits by Terri's parents. Michael doesn't permit stimulation of Terri by television or outdoor visits. He permitted these things in the early 90's, but once he decided Terri should die he stopped these activities.
I wasn't aware any of those issues were in dispute. Michael wants Terri to die, and the courts have given Michael broad leeway in how Terri should be treated.
And I know her parents are getting their way. That's why I think the law is bad.
Tina
· 4 years ago
:?: Why is Michael Schiavo allowed to work as a nurse :?: :!:
Patrick
· 4 years ago
Posted by: Patrick on March 25, 2005 11:48 AM Last night I was listenening to airhead america radio and they brought up that "the conservatives and the republicans are on the ban wagon for marriage, but that they are hypocrites." They said the reason that they are hypocrites is because Michael Schrivo is the husband of Terry and he has the right to decide whether she lives or dies." Well let's consider what kind of husband he is.
Michael Schriver is an unfaithful, adulterer. He broke covenant with his wife to stand by her side for better or for worse. Michael this is the worse part of the contract, but you abandoned your wife. Now we as a nation are endorsing the inhumane torture of this dear precious woman. You know what animals have more rights than Terry Schrivo does. If a dog, cat, or horse were to be found in an inhumane environment where they are malnourished, neglected, being starved, having no water, those responsible for such inhumane treatment would be in jail. But what do we do, we let a judge and an adulterer go home at night and be with their families while this woman perishes. Truly many hearts in America have grown cold. Truly we live in a culture of death and I say to all American's who support the demise of this woman, shame on you, you're pathetic and you're cowards.
Mike
· 4 years ago
John 8:6-7 NIV But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.â€
John 13:34 NIV “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
We all watch this case, and we have our views. I wonder how many of you who have posted messages here filled with hatred and bile consider yourselves Christians. Have you even considered the two statements above? You should recognize them. They are instructions from our Lord and Saviour.
Has Michael sought comfort in the arms of another woman and had children? Yes. Is it a sin? Yes. Is it understandable? I think so. I've heard conflicting reports of how long he has been with this other woman, and how old their children are. All of his should take a few moments to put ourselves in his shoes and think about what it must be have been like for these fifteen years. Michael and the Schindlers deserve our compassion. They also deserve for the American people to butt-out. That is what the Schindlers need, even if they don't realize it.
How many of you have been in the unenviable position of choosing to have someone's life support removed? If you've never had to face this choice, you may not be qualified to offer an opinion. I know from experience that a person's brain stem can create an illusion of life where none exists. If someone is truly in a vegetative state, a feeding tube that's placement required surgery is life support. I am not in favor of assisted suicide.
Move on with your lives. Learn from this and get a Living Will making your wishes known. Drop to your knees and thank the Lord that you haven't had to be go through what Michael and the Schindlers had. Pray that you never have to endure it. Pray for everyone who is involved in this tragedy.
Kathleen Brown
· 4 years ago
I can't believe that some of you people call yourself Christians. I have never seen such judgemental hatred spewed in the name of the Lord. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves. But I also need to thank you - you are the reason that I am no longer Catholic.
Sign me horrified.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Because Christians want to make sure an innocent life isn't ended against her will?
I've read over this thread and see very little from Christians except love and compassion. You ought to see the vile comments from people who hate Christians that *didn't* get posted. Whew.
Beth
· 4 years ago
In response to #102... You are ABSOLUTELY right... both Michael Schiavo and the Schindlers deserve our compassion and prayers. I think they are all suffering tremendously, even thought they have different thoughts as to what is best for Terri.
I truly hope the ordeal ends soon, because the longer it drags out, the worse it will ultimately be for everyone.
No matter how anyone feels about Michael Schiavo, it doesn't matter because the courts have decided what is best for Terri Schiavo, based on all of the evidence they have received from all parties. They have ruled that Terri can't have a "real life" in a vegatative state and that they believe that it is HER wish to be taken off life support. Feeding tubes are a form of life support because she is unable to feed herself or swallow. It is not assisted suicide or murder to remove life support.
And I agree with the guy that says you have NO idea what it is like unless you have had to endure this kind of suffering or decision making. Nor is it any business of ours to interfere with her husband's decision or that of the courts.
On my way home tonight I heard about how there was a "bounty" on Michael Schiavo and some of the judges... that only goes to show how right wing christians react when they don't get their way. They KILL when they are against abortion too... is that kind of behavior truly Christian? I KNOW NOT. People lke that give true christians a very bad name.... not to mention they are a bunch of hypocrites threatening to kill someone because they don't agree with the court or the guardian's right to remove the feeding tube.
Liz
· 4 years ago
Not far from where Terri is, a self-confessed murdering child molestor, John Couey is on suicide watch, while Terri's suicide is being watched while depriving her of hydration and food.
Shannon
· 4 years ago
Judge Greer is " The Angel of Death " I hope he has the pleasure to watch one of his children be starved to death ! For that matter, anyone that has had the opportunity to save her and hasn't ! Including Michele Schiavo, any Congressmen , Senator, Governor and President .
Patrick
· 4 years ago
I've been reading some of the responses since I first posted and I wanted to comment on all of you that are quoting scripture. Could you please inform the rest of us the context in which Jesus made those statements. Too often I think that Christians are backed into a corner by others who throw out scriptures like, "do not judge lest you be judged", and we are scared into silence. As Christians we are to make judgments but not based upon our own opinions but in light of the revelation of Gods word. I made an observation that Michael Schiavo is an adulterer not based upon my opinion, but on God's word, His standard. He is still married but is living with another woman, and through their unholy union have children. If you wonder what God thinks about that read 1 Cor. ch. 5 & 6; Galatian 5, and Revelation 21:8 just to name a few.
Moving on now. Biblically speaking, human life is sacred. It is sacred because according to Genesis 1:26-27; 5:1) man that being humankind is made in the image and likeness of God. So whether a person is severly deformed, wracked with pain over a terminal illness, or in a vegetative state, their intrinsic value or worth is found in the fact that they bear the image of God. Furthermore life is sacred because it is God who gives and sustains it. And to treat it lightly or with disregard is the supreme act of unthankfulness. Disregard for human life also suggest that man not God is the one who gives it and owns it. Finally killing is condemned in both the Old and the New Testament, with the exception of killing in self-defense, capital punishment, and a just war. None of these instance apply to Terri, so her death is a crime in the sight of God. Judge Greer, Michael Schiavo, and all other who want Terri to die, are guilty of taking the prerogative of God in their hands, and people you will soon give an account to Him.
Please write back.
Patrick
Beth
· 4 years ago
You say: Furthermore life is sacred because it is God who gives and sustains it"... well God isn't sustaining Terri, a feeding tube was doing that. Removing that feeding tube is an artificial means to keeping her breathing. She is not living, just breathing.
I really get weary when someone quotes the bible to me, as they always pick passages to push their agendas. Well, even though I am a Christian, I truly believe the bible was written by human beings in what they interpret God's wishes to be.... how do you KNOW God wrote the bible? If you know God sustains us, and gives us life, then why does he choose to let some die and some live? If God truly wanted Terri to live, then he would give her back a productive life, or at least one in which she could communicate to us.
If God truly wanted to save Terri from death, then a miracle will happen very shortly and she will be able to tell us that she is alive and wants to live. Short of that, your argument doesn't hold much water.
Patrick
· 4 years ago
Beth you're a Christian but you question whether God wrote the Bible. Granted he used human instruments but they were like the pencil in the master's hand. Read 2 Tim. 3:16 and 1 Pet 1:10-12 and see Who the Author of the Scriptures is. As far as people living and dying. Death was never His plan. Death is the result of sin.
As far as a feeding tube to sustain Terri, thank God that He would use medicine and science to be able to do that. Let me ask you this. If God wanted a baby to live would He just leave that littler person to fend for themselves? Can they support themselves? No, that is why He gives them loving mommy and daddys to care for their needs. Is it not the most humane thing to care for Terri rather than allow her to starve and dehydrate? Would you do that to an infant?
Dan
· 4 years ago
"On my way home tonight I heard about how there was a “bounty†on Michael Schiavo and some of the judges… that only goes to show how right wing christians react when they don’t get their way."
Now, Beth, that's just crazy talk! To kill Michael Schiavo would be aborting a baby in the 160th trimester.
Honestly, though, it looks like Michael Schiavo and some of the judiciary probably *will* be targeted by nutjobs. Let's hope that doesn't happen.
And let me extend my heartfelt condolences about your mom. I can't possibly imagine what you all went through.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Thanks Dan. I appreciate your condolences. There is not a day that goes by that I don't miss my mother... she was so FULL OF LIFE before she fell ill. It truly is heartbreaking to watch someone you love dearly and unconditionally that was so full of life to be rendered completely helpless. The one thing that gets us through it is to know that my mother is in a much better place than we are on this earth... and that she is not suffering an indignities or is in any pain.
Unfortunately there are a lot of nut jobs out there. And threatening and/or killing them will not solve anything, it will only worsen this dispute. And even if people are upset about the direction this case has gone in, it has gone through the courts for 10 years now with the same results every time. I don't see any court reversing the original decision given all the courts that have reviewed it to date. The Supreme Court would not even hear it...period.
My prayer is that everyone close to Terri can find some kind of peace regardless of the final outcome. It is clear they all love her very much, but just disagree on what is best for her.
I also hope that this whole tragedy being brought to the forefront of the public eye will encourage everyone that is an adult to file a living will with their own wishes.
Happy Easter to you Dan...and to everyone.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Patrick, you are comparing apples and oranges... and it is not a valid analogy.
GIA
· 4 years ago
MIchael : So where is the links and or transcripts that support what you said ? You did not post them.
" I wasn’t aware any of those issues were in dispute. Michael wants Terri to die, "
Why do you say that? He does not want to force her to live in a vegetative state he knew her you did not. The accusations you are repeating are most certainly in issue because they are false, but if you have some concrete evidence to show they are true please show me .
Michael
· 4 years ago
Nits. "He does not want to force her to live" is equal to "he wants her to die". While the courts have ruled that Terri would have wanted to die, that's only supported by Michael, his sister and brother in law. Terri's friends and family dispute that.
Terri's family list "Myths, Questions & Facts", including the restrictions that Michael prohibits certain types of medical care, interactions with family, and prohibited stimulation.
I acknowledge that I do not know what Terri wanted. Neither do you. Since there is a reasonable dispute, the government shouldn't be mandating death by starvation. It's barbaric.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Michael you stated "He does not want to force her to live†is equal to “he wants her to dieâ€. " ---> that can't be further from the truth. Terri is not "living"... she is just breathing... she has no thoughts, no control over her body, has no pain, etc. This has been documented time and again by doctors.
If you think that the "myths, questions and facts" presented by Terri's family is "gospel" and not slanted in any way, then you are really much more naive than I had previously thought. That sight is propaganda designed to get their way in having her feeding tube reinserted and for them to try to get custody. It is a desperate attempt to malign Michael Schiavo.
You are right. No one knows for certain what Terri's wish is. But the TRUE facts remain, Terri's guardian is Michael Schiavo. Terri's parents agreed long ago that he should be guardian. Michael Schiavo asked the courts to decide this issue, and they have made their decision loud and clear that they believe from the evidence presented that Terri's wish was not to have to live in a vegatative state. Apparently Terri's parents have not proven otherwise.
Additionally the Schindlers latest stunt of desperation to get the feeding tube reinserted only weakens their already shaky credibility in this matter. The judge already said that he believed that based on EVIDENCE presented in court that he believes it was Terri's wish not to be kept alive by any artificial means, including having a feeding tube. Telling a judge that Terri spoke to them last week to say that she wanted to live is just ridiculous. Had Terri really spoke to them in those words, they would have contacted the courts right then and there. they would have summoned witnesses immediately. Who do they think they are fooling???
If you want to site facts, please find facts that can be sited...and don't include that link above because those are not facts...but supposition and inuendo...nothing more.
Michael
· 4 years ago
The whole case is opinion. All the facts are in dispute, unless of course you're in denial.
Your statement that "Terri is not living" is disputed by Terri's family and the doctors they have hired. I acknowledge the dispute, something which you won't do.
Of course the links at Terri's Fight are slanted in favor of saving Terri's life. They're trying to save her life. Michael's statements are biased, too, but in the opposite direction because he's trying to end her life. That's why the whole thing ended up in court.
Terri's parents do not agree that Michael should be her guardian. They've filed repeatedly to revoke that. Florida law appoints Michael as her guardian. That doesn't mean he has her best wishes in mind.
Terri's family could care less at this point what you think. They're trying to save their daughter's life. The "latest stunt" as you put it could have very well been on TV if Michael ever permitted cameras in there.
Beth
· 4 years ago
Ah Michael...you are "reaching" now... Do you honestly believe the latest news that their daughter can speak? If you do, you really are reaching, because 99% of the doctors don't. And if you read all the polls out there, nor does the majority of the public (international public that is). It is clear that the parents are manipulating the system in hopes to reverse the courts orders. I realize they are desperate, but to lie or perjure themselves is really serious and they better stop before a judge has them arrested for tampering.
As for guardianship, at the beginning of this whole ordeal the Schindlers encouraged Michael to move on. When everything he did to help her didn't work and he did give up and move on they simply turned on him. I wish you could see that. They didn't petetion the courts til after he won a settlement and they wanted a piece of the pie.
Oh, I am not saying they don't love their daughter, or course they do. But they need to accept that they are NOT her guardians and it is NOT their decision.
You seem to forget one thing or be completely unaware that the majority of the medical community at large seem to dispute what the octors that the Schindlers have hired and deem them to be less than reputable. All the other doctors commenting on this case are the tops in their field and/or are regular care givers to Terri. The majority of the health care professionals all support the facts that Terri can't get any better and will never recover.
It really doesn't matter to me what you think Terri's parents think of me or not. Besides I am sure they wouldn't care.
I just hope this all ends soon for all of them. The longer it goes on, the worse it gets for everyone involved.
Michael
· 4 years ago
I'm aware most medical professionals believe Terri won't recover. I'm also aware that Michael does not permit Terri's family to hire their own doctors, won't allow other doctors to look at her, and that the key word is *most* doctors. Not all.
I told you earlier we would not agree, but please don't insult me by telling me I'm reaching. I recognize there are two sides in dispute. My opinion is precisely that it is in dispute that Terri should not be killed. You are summarily dismissing opinions that do not agree with you, so we will not agree.
- It's not 100% true that Terri would want to die. No living will, no written record, only the testimony of Michael and his relatives. Court sided with Michael, dismissed Terri's family's contention that Terri would want to live. Any objective person might conclude that either side may be right. - *If* Terri would not want to die, then a government-sanctioned killing of an innocent human being is terrible law. The threshold for determining Terri's desire should be higher. - Killing her by starvation is barbaric. Death row inmates are put to sleep painlessly. If you want to kill her, then kill her already. Don't pretend that by watching her starve helplessly while you stand by and watch that somehow your hands are clean.
I think the arguments have been well hashed on both sides. For the most part, the comments were reasonable and polite and well-thought. I thank everybody for participating; comments are now closed. *click*
Michael
· 4 years ago
I had a wonderful Easter weekend, thanks for asking. :)
Comments are back open now. Everybody play nice. :)
PRT
· 4 years ago
If Michael is such a loving caring husband why did he wait over seven years to say she never wanted to live this way (on life support)interesting that he didn't remember this until after he got his financial judgement from the court. Why did he testify that he would always be by her side thats why he needed a 20 million dollar judgement when he got a two million dollar award (well i think it was 1.4 million for terri and 600K for him) his story changed ya thats the ticket she wants to DIE. The clear evidence that some of you have referred to when talking about Terri saying she would never want to live on life support(and I notice some of you just say not only Micheal heard her say it but others did also) well the others are Micheals brother and a sister in law also on his side. This convinced Judge Greer to side with Michael. Now remember Judge Greer is the same Judge the refused to grant a restraing order against the boyfriend of a women that came before him as a result she was dead at the boyfriends hands within forty eight hours. Many will say a restraining order wouldn't have saved her life probably not but it just shows you one more example of what poor Judgement Greer has. One last thing although many judges and courts have reviewed and sided with Judge Greer none of them did an independent investigation of this case, all the other courts and judges made their decisions based on Judge Greers determining Terri did not want to live on life support. Terri deserved another independent review of her case their were and are to many questions. But as the clock contiunes to tick Michael and Judge Greer will get their wish. It will be a very sad day for the Great American Justice system
pam smith
· 4 years ago
:twisted: michael schiavo is a low life murder i hope he has the most miserable life anyone could ever have.he don't love her he wants her dead and thats plain to see.when he got another woman he should have returned her to her parents who brought her into this world he will face a just God and he may really know thirst when he's burning in hell and precious will be enjoying LIVING WATERS.this just proves he wanted to kill her she wasn't as near death as he wanted her to be or she wouldn't have had the fight she has shown.I had a stroke and have brain damage and a lot of disabling problems but thank God i had a loving husband who married me and took our vows for better or worse in sickness and in health till death do us part and he didn't try to hurry me to death as this jerk has done.the bible says love your wife as christ loves the church.not go get another woman and start a family that's not love if this idiot don't know it.i hope he suffers the pains of death every day of his life and lives to be 150 years old trys to die and can't and his new woman suffers equal to him.God be with terri's mom and brother and sister you'll will meet again and won't have to be bothered with this jerk he'll probaly won't a drop of your spit to cool his tongue but it'll be to late for him and his hooch.
sarah a.
· 4 years ago
:smile:I'm glad you had a wonderful Easter! have a great day you guys
Jimb
· 4 years ago
Lot's of issues trouble me in this, but here is the biggest one. If I express to my wife that I do not want to be kept alive if I am in a vegetative state, do my parents have the right to keep me alive against my wishes, or is my spouse entitled to uphold my wishes. If, and its an uncertain if I agree, but if Terry did express her wishes to her husband, it seems to me that her parents religious views, and there incredible love for their daughter, can't override that. Other issues that bother me. the influence of religious beliefs on medical opinions. Some of the "experts" saying she is not in a vegetative state have never seen a CT scan, but oppose the entire diagnoses of PVS. Hmmm. I can't figure out what is in this for the husband. Not money, he has apparently been offered millions to let her live. So what then... Why the name calling? There are serious issues involved here that deserve to be discussed and debated, but I have heard people on both sides, but particularly the right resort to name calling and character assassination. It disappoints me in my own party.
Jimb
· 4 years ago
Pam...what an incredibly un-christian view you hold.
Alicia
· 4 years ago
:cry: My heart go out to the family of Terri Schiavo. I really hate the fac t that our live are dictated and controlled by others and exspecially the goverment. I pray that Terri shock them all and come out and tell the truth and shock the goverment and that sorry ass, money hungry, crazy husband of hers get the punsihment he deserves.
patti
· 4 years ago
get a clue??? seriously, he has been devoted to her and visit and takes care of her. Put yourself in his shoes he was very young when this happened , did you expect his life to stop because hers did, she was obviously unhappy with herself to begin with to have an eating disorder that was so out of control that she would actually have the imbalance which caused her heart attack. Nobody hurt her the night before this all happened except for herself. She had to have had this disorder for years!!!! Whats wrong is mom feeling guilty because she could'nt help her then and now she gets to everyday. I don't think that anyone of you would want to live like this and I can bet that after this case you will all make sure of it, or at least make your request know to several people, dont tell me you haven't laid awake at night and rolled over and said to your spouse, please dont let me live like that, please!
Jimb
· 4 years ago
Again with the name calling. Alicia knows absolutely nothing about the husband other than what she hears bantered about the radio or TV by other people who don't know anything about him. I have no idea if he is a good guy or not, but am pretty sure he didn't do this for money. He could have "sold" Terry many times which is what others have suggested he do. He refused all offers of money. Everyone is entitled to their opinion on these issues, but please, become informed with the facts. how many of you have read the original decision of Judge Greers finding that Terry would not want ot live in a vegetative state? Is it shocking that a person wouldn't want to live like that? And to suggest that the "government" is doing this to Terry is stunning, given that both the Florida legislature and the US Congress tried to intervene into an otherwise personal issue on behalf of the PARENTS!
Let's not believe all the talking heads out there. Saying there are disputes about her condition doesn't make it so. Saying her husband abused her (in the ocmplete absence of any evidence by the way) doesn't make it true. Learn the real facts, not the myths, and then decide. Reasonable people can still disagree, just do it knowledgeably.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Now that Terri is dead, I'm being flooded with very offensive anti-religious posts. I'm not allowing these offensive comments to be posted, not for their contrary viewpoint but for the name calling and rude language that these posters feel inclined to use.
Feel free to post your opinion, either pro or con, but be respectful of the other posters and their beliefs.
Lisa
· 4 years ago
God bless Terri Schiavo and may she rest in peace.
Jimb
· 4 years ago
But you are not censoring name calling from the religious point of view? Example..."sorry ass, money hungry, crazy husband of hers get the punsihment he deserves"
Zachary
· 4 years ago
This transgression has shaken the foundations of which this Country stands. How is life defined? How much power the federal and state governments hold? I’ve been keeping tabs of the insight people have been putting into this sight. I found some outright disturbing, while others have been very interesting. I give my thanks to Michael for making this sight possible; it has given me an up close perspective of the opinions of many diverse people. In regards to the Schiavo family I send my deepest condolences. I hope that over time the many wounds that have been dealt to the entire family, including Schiavo’s husband, can heal. I choose not to enter my opinion whether or not Schiavo’s death was justified in the end. This is an impossible judgment to make. Personality I would not want to live while in a vegetate sate, but as I said that would be my wish, perhaps not for Schiavo. I do wish to sate my belief that the government had no right to intrude on this personal family matter. When something as personal and socially disturbing as this makes national news it can only lead to trouble. Mark my words, Schiavo may be dead, but this transgression is far from over for the religious advocates on the side of keeping Schiavo alive. I truly hope that no hate crimes follow this tragedy. This is a time of healing, not retaliation.
Michael
· 4 years ago
Jimb, those names don't even compare to the offensive stuff that is *not* getting through. Ugh.
karen
· 4 years ago
im so sorrowed that things have come to this. who can say which life has value? Terri was not brain dead she was severely brain damaged. if someone cared about her and wanted to take on the responsibility for her why not choose life? the claims about her not wanting to live this way came a little late in the whole scheme of things and are just so vague. as far as a husbands rights. i hardly think he is acting as a husband when he is living in a permanent state of adultery (his adultery is a reliquishing of rights biblically speaking and in the civil sense). lets face it there will always be a niggling doubt "was terri just in the way?" terri was not on a respirator, all she was recieving was nutrition and water. if she had truly desired death she would have died a long time ago. sheer will to live has kept her alive. all these people so eager to kill her would be the first ones to raise their voices in protests over the killing of some endangered rodents or insect but cant bring themselves to truly mourn the passing of a human life.
Dan
· 4 years ago
"lets face it there will always be a niggling doubt 'was terri just in the way?'
Let's also face it, there will always be a niggling suspicion that Terri Schiavo really told her husband she would not want to live in a vegetative state.
Godspeed, Terri.
Michael
· 4 years ago
See, that's where we differ. If you're not sure, then killing her would be a bad thing. The "niggling" only goes one way.
As I read on one site earlier today, "We weren't really sure one way or the other what Terri wanted, so we decided to starve her to death."
Dan
· 4 years ago
You & I may not be sure, but the courts were. At that point it was entirely out of Michael Schiavo's hands.
Michael: What was your take on the baby that was taken off life support at Texas Children's Hospital recently? (link)(link)(link)
Michael
· 4 years ago
And I've already said I disagree with the court's finding. Actually, it was a single finding over 12 years ago. Everything since then has been an appeal, but there was no way to appeal the original finding that Terri wanted to die, despite ample evidence that called that finding into question.
I read the links you sent, enough to know that there are both similarities and differences. The baby was on life support and suffered a fatal illness and not expected to live anyway. Still, my initial response is that the parents should have been given some way to care for their baby since that's what they wished.
"Today's black-robed night writers are not unlike the white-robed night riders of our past. Federal judges are elitists who serve the elite."
Would that be the Republican elite or the Democratic elite?
Michael
· 4 years ago
I'm not sure where you quoted that from, but I believe activist judges serve the liberal elite. Non-activist judges would be the preference of the conservatives, and practically by definition non-activist judges don't serve anybody.
Dan
· 4 years ago
The quote is from pc93's own blog. Comparing judges to the Klan was a bit over the top.
Was Alabama's Judge Roy Moore an activist judge for installing a monument to Commandments on the courthouse lawn in the middle of the night? Could the federal judges that struck down segregation and enforced unpopular civil rights laws be considered activist?
I strongly suspect that we hang "activist" moniker on whatever jurist fails to rule in concert with our personal opinion(s).
A.M.M.
· 4 years ago
Well, suspicions aren't always right. The term "activist" is usually reserved for those judges that rule under their own beliefs regardless of what the laws may state.
Roy Moore can't be considered an activist because he didn't make any rulings regarding the monument. Sure, it was still something he wanted to do regardless of laws, but he didn't pass any rulings about it.
The federal judges that "struck down segregation and enforced unpopular civil rights" can't be considered activists either because of that one key word before "unpopular civil rights". They were enforcing laws that already existed, and therefore were not creating their own.
This is not to say republicans can't have their own activists same as the democrats, but they tend to not be as rampant or as numerous as the democratic activists.
Michael
· 4 years ago
I understand your point, Dan; judges are supposed to enforce the constitution, and civil rights can easily be supported by the constitution. Prayer in schools, Roe vs Wade, Homosexual marriages, and refusing to protect a woman in a vegetative state after the US Congress specifically passed legislation to do just that is a lot harder to justify in the US Constitution. When the last Supreme Court decision was based on international opinion instead, conservatives have a responsibility to reign in the judiciary.
Dan
· 4 years ago
AMM: Good point about the civil rights enforcement. That was a bad example on my part.
As for Judge Moore, he has in the past let his personal beliefs influence his rulings and courtroom behavior. When running for the Alabama Supreme Ct., one of his campaign promises was to take his courtroom plaque of the Commandments with him. In Feb 2002, he ruled against a woman retaining custody of her three children for the sole reason that she was/is a lesbian. In the opinion which he drafted, he quoted verses from Genesis and Leviticus, as well as citing the death penalty as punishment for homosexuality. Here's a quote from Moore's own opinion:
"The State carries the power of the sword, that is, the power to prohibit conduct with physical penalties, such as confinement and even execution. It must use that power to prevent the subversion of children toward this lifestyle, to not encourage a criminal lifestyle."
After losing his Nov 2002 legal battle to keep the monument in the courthouse rotunda, he said:
"Federal district courts have no jurisdiction or authority to prohibit the acknowledgment of God that is specifically recognized in the Constitution of Alabama."
To me, Judge Moore seems "activist" enough when his personal beliefs lead him to flaunt the very laws he was sworn to uphold. It definitely calls into question his impartiality.
Micheal: The constitution and its drafters could not forsee everything, as evidenced by the amendments to cover things like abolition of slavery, speedy trial, self-incrimination, cruel & unusual punishment, removal of race as a factor in voting, and women's suffrage. Each of those things had to be added after the fact to improve the civil rights standing of the U.S.
As for topics like gay marriage and abortion, I personally feel those should be left up to the states themselves since they are not directly covered in the constitution or current set of amendments. (Amendment #10!)
As for the Terri Schiavo situation, it galled me that Congress intervened in a state matter. It seemed doubly irritating that Tom DeLay wanted to intercede on Schiavo's behalf when DeLay himself agreed to withhold kidney dialysis from his own father who had suffered brain damage in a construction accident.
Michael
· 4 years ago
I understand the fathers of the constitution could not forsee everything; that's why they setup a system to allow ammendments. Judges do not have the right to interpret things not in the constitution; the ability to change the constitution is reserved for the legislature and the states.
So, Dan, you feel Roe vs Wade should be overturned? That was a state matter. I happen to agree with you.
DeLay's father was on a ventilator, kidney dialysis, had organ failure, and was expected to die shortly. Terri just needed food.
Dan
· 4 years ago
Michael: RvW overturned? That particular genie is already out the bottle. If it had come up today I'd be shrieking the state's rights argument on that issue. Color me a closet Federalist. I should have an office pinup of Alexander Hamilton.
As for DeLay's father, he was stricken during the period of Texas' "Natural Death Act" of 1977, which required that physicians perform any and all lifesaving measures unless: 1. Two physicians (one who must be the primary care physician) must agree that the condition is terminal and death would be imminent without lifesaving measures, and... 2. The patient's guardian elects to withold lifesaving measures. And in that case, they did it, and I do not fault the DeLay family for their decision whatsoever.
Lucky for me, the new Advance Directives Act of 1999 (signed by then-Gov. Bush) allows my wife to pull my plug if the docs concur that my condition is expected to be terminal within six months. While that is not something I look forward to, it gives me peace of mind that I won't be a burden and I'll be allowed to move on with my existence.
All Comments
Also, when someone is threatening to commit suicide, which is a form of denying yourself the basic needs of life (whether that's drowning yourself, denying yourself enough oxygen to breathe or hanging yourself which denies yourself pretty much the same basic need or any other method), don't we usually try to stop them from carrying it out. Even if Terri for some reason doesen't want to live in that state, shouldn't we try all that we can to not allow her to carry out her own death by depriving herself of the basic needs?
We won't "put her to sleep" with an injection like an unwanted animal. That would be "wrong". Murder perhaps? Cruely starving her to death is OK though. What a world we live in!
In the case of injection, alongside a firing squad, beheading, gassing, drowning, and so forth, the act is dedicated to whoever implemented it. In the case of starvation, it may be possible to view it as "She didn't show any signs of desiring food. Her death was her own fault," and as such, the act could not be dedicated to a particular person. (Of course, the same line of reasoning never applies to those awake and conscious, but that may be because they are awake and conscious.)
I'm not saying it's right (I'm aggainst removing the tube); I'm just trying to explain it.
A licensed nurse of Terry's, since fired, has filed an affidavit saying that Terri can communicate: http://www.apfn.org/apfn/aff2-terri.pdf
Information, materials, etc. pertinent to crimes being perpetrated against Theresa Schindler Schiavo and pertinent to a current DCF investigation listed below:
http://tekgnosis.typepad.com
Let your Congressman and Senator know and tell them to vote in favor of the Incapacitated Person's Legal Protection Act as well.
NOTE: Free faxing for entire Washington D.C. area:
http://www.tpc.int/sendfax.html (send a free fax from your web browser)
Format of number to input is:
(ex. Pres. U.S. [POTUS]) -> 1 202 456 2461
(ex. Ashcroft) -> 1 202 514 1009
Vice Pres. Dick Cheney 1 202 456 2710
U.S. Senators and Congressmembers, etc.
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_informati...
he was mad that he'd rather be sleeping with terri in the nursing home bed than
her.and that she had ruined years of his life.he once asked a nurse"isnt the bitch dead yet?"what kind of judge would allow this man to be in charge of anyone?the judge is a sick as he is.nobody should be allowed to starve.i once worked in a nursing home and a resident of sound mind chose it for himself.i still thought it was barbaric.but it was HIS wishes.terri schiavo is not in the position to make her own choices.and i seriously doubt she told her husband if something happened to her to disconnect.michael schiavo is with another woman and has two children.he has moved on.the only thing holding him back is terri.he wants her money and free of her.he wont even allow her parents the priveledge of burying their beloved daughter.what an evil monster
It would have been best if Terri had made her wishes known in writing beforehand, but she's unable to do that now, and we're left guessing.
In Terry's case, she didn't have a Living Will, her parents say that a Living Will contradicts the faith Terry was brought up in, and her husband does not have Terry's interests at heart and is fathering children with another woman. Should we take the husband's word that this is what Terry would want?
have but one statement.
"WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?"
Great point #3- if in an attempt for someone to try to kill themselves, we do not stand by and watch- we usually try to get them help. IF I truly love someone and had funds in an account to support their medical care why would I not encourage every means possible for good health care, such as physical therapy?? (Mr. Schiavo denied physical therapy) Because that would be wasting any funds that might be left over for him or better yet- she might get better… Schiavo has stated that this whole ordeal is ruining his life. If he had divorced her and left her- financial, physical, and emotional care to the people who love her then he would have no longer presume responsibility over her somewhat demanding needs and could get on with- financial, physical, and emotional abuse of another being. Schiavo keep your money! I and many others,would gladly donate what little money I have leftover from a tight financial situation to add more life for this complete stranger (as long as the trustee was her parents). #12- not necessarily true, if you are a weasel and cannot (Or you just can’t be bothered to) love and support your spouse till’ death do you part (And I do not mean by murdering them) then move on with your life and file for divorce. Perhaps he is board he cannot slap her around anymore. This is unfortunately not about Terry’s best interest, it is about greed! You shaydie #12 are unfortunately living in a dark tumultuous world and if in fact you ever need to escape, let me know-I’ll stand by you! # 15 Gina- great job, you have in fact saved any future turmoil amongst people that love you! It would be hard for them to abide by your wishes you seem like a beautiful person, unfortunately Terri did not write her last wishes and her husband does not love her! Dr. Kevorkian legally could not assist the hurting terminally ill even when they make their decision still being of sound mind, then, Dr. Schiavo should not be allowed to either. You mentioned heaven- we will all get there eventually. We all carry crosses on this earth- maybe earth is our purgatory, which will make Terri’s journey all the more satisfying and fruitful when she is taken by natural causes rather than starvation! If ever incapacitated I think that the beautiful Earth, and Mother Nature –God’s gifts- to us along with the sight of my beautiful family may be enough to keep me whole! Stop what your doing and appreciate your family and all that is around you- I am sure Terri is! The woman does smile!
n
After a couple of days in the coma, the doctors did a battery of tests and came back with the news that my husband had only brain stem activity. He was not supported by any machines other than a feeding tube. I watched in horror as his family and many of the nursing home employees smiled and talked to him like a baby. His eyes would sometimes dart from one side to the other and noises would come from his mouth. Everyone would act like he was talking and each would interject what they wanted him to say. He diapers were changed, he was showered and cleaned as needed, and he was turned from one side to the other to prevent bed sores. He was a 36 year old man.
I was offended by the behavior of his family and the medical staff. Every word they said hurt like a physical attack. "He asked for you today" they would tell my children. "he wants to know why you dont visit more" they would say to me.
What about dignity. What about qualilty of life? Sure if it was your child or your spouse, you would want to keep them alive for as long as possible, but why? Because you don't want to deal with his death? I don't know. I know every day my husband was kept alive, I felt as if his body was being held hostage and he was stuck waiting to move on. I felt like every effort to prolong his life was a assult on him. To me it was obscene. It was disrespectful and very wrong. But I was the monster. I was the adulterer. I was the selfish one. The same things were said to and about me that you say about Michael. Why are you so sure you are right. Have you felt the pain of looking in your spouse's eyes and knowing that they are gone but cannot rest in peace?
Would you choose a life of sitting in a bed, in a diaper and unable to do anything for yourself? Most people say they would not want to be kept alive under those circumstances, and yet don't hesitate to force another person to life year after year with no quality of life whatsoever.
The truth is that after a certain number of minutes the brain cells are dead and cannot be replaced or repaired. When people say miricles happen, they have not done much research. I wasn't able to find any medical report of recovery by a person in a persistent vegitative state, with severe brain damage. When they talk about therapy and teaching the person to swallow, that is a long ways from functional.
Please understand that it is a life-altering event when a spouse is rendered in this condition. It has detrimental effects on the spouse and children
and they need support not attacks and accusations. He doesn't need anyone to question his motives, I guaranty he has questioned himself over and over again.
It is an unnatural and scary position to be in and you cannot image how alone you can feel when you loose your spouse and then have to defend yourself over every choice you make. You cannot imagine the way it feels to be married to someone who will never be able to hold a conversation or have an opinion on anything ever again.
I dont' know what kind of person Michael is or was, but he is in a situation that is so awfull that you cannot imagine. His responses are likely to sound harsh, cold and uncaring, but when you have to learn to get through the day under such circumstances it takes an incredible toll on you and when on top of that you are attacked and talked about by "friends" and family you start to feel hostile towards just about everyone.
Please give it some thought and turn off the hate machine.
It appears to me, though, that once he's moved in with another woman and started fathering children out of wedlock that he's abdicated that role and it should be turned over to someone we know that has Terri's best interests at heart.
If it happens to me, I don't want to live like that either after all reasonable hope is gone, and shame on anyone who would make it harder on my wife, who loves me dearly, to do what I would want her to do. And if my wife takes up with another man after a reasonable time, God bless her. I know she will have suffered enough and deserves whatever happiness she can get from this life.
God bless and peace.
The report of the nurse who worked with Terri (on one of these responses)is chilling. God knows the truth and will settle all accounts.
A generation of liars in high places will bring the nation and its people to ruin, history sets its seal to that thesis. Even her religious freedoms have been violated. Last rights for Catholics include holy communion. A police officer physically stopped a priest from administering this holy sacrament to her.
On that subject, Terry Schiavo is a devoted Catholic and her religion prohibits assisted suicide so she would not have wanted to die this way. God sustained her body for 6 days without food and water- partly due to her fighting and strong will to live. Food and water are NOT medical treatments. Withholding them is murder.
Withholding them with judicial approval is legalized murder.
Let us hope America stands up with the goodness it once had, “for all it takes for evil to triumph is for the good to do nothing.â€
I, for one, and glad they stepped into this argument.
The government has no business sticking their nose in. Whatever happened to the sanctity of the family, or the rights of the individual?
As for sanctity of marriage, if Michael Schiavo is going to use that as justification for ending Terri's life, then he owes it to society to present himself as her caring husband. Since he's living with another woman and fathering children out of wedlock, one can no longer trust he has her interests in mind.
Shouldn't the government get involved if a man wants to kill a woman? Sanctity of marriage only goes so far.
I also heard him talk about Michael Schiavo's attorney's deposition of her parents in which they are on the record as saying, that if in their care, Terry developed diabetes, and needed to have a limb amputated they would insist that she have the surgery. They continuted with this gruesome scenario, saying that they would have one limb after another amputated until Terry was just a torso. Then, when asked if Terry developed heart problems and needed open heart surgery, they would bring her to the hospital for surgery.
At this point, according to the doctor, MIchael Schiavo stood up and said I can't stand this anymore. I will never allow you to have custody of Terry. She was once the woman I loved and I will stand up for her right to die because she would never have wanted to live like this.
Does this sicken anyone else? I'm a mother and a grandmother and I love my family dearly, but I would never allow anyone I love to stay in a persistant vegetative state for more than 6 months.
One question I have about the parents: If they gained custody of Terry's body, who would pay for her care? The government? I would much rather the money be spent on the children that the right to life crowd abandon after birth!
Marriage is supposed to be sacred, between "one man and one woman," right? No government, group, or individual has a right to insert themselves into the Schiavo marriage. He is presenting himself a caring husband: he cares so much for her that he isn't taking the easy way out, and fighting to fulfill her wishes. Now that's devotion.
Your generalization about getting the government involved "if a man wants to kill a woman" is simplistic and irrelevant, and ignores the facts of this case. Here is a man trying to fulfill his wife's wishes. None of us can interfere in that relationship.
What's next? What happened to the separation of powers? Why not let the judicial branch do its job? There have been ample opportunities for arguments to be heard and the case to be reviewed. Now everytime congress doesn't agree with a judicial ruling they will pass a bill or law to change that ruling? That is not right, Madison is turning in his grave. What about due process. This case has been anything but speedy, now we're going to have it last even longer? Also, the parents have been heard saying that even if Terri had told them that she wanted life support removed they wouldn't do it. The husband is the person who knows best what Terri's wishes were. I'm sick of people trying to get around that by trying to destroy his image and character, who although not exemplary does not take away from the fact he is her guardian and as her husband knows her wishes best. There is more to this than the life and death of Terri and most people fail to see that.
1) That her family disagrees with her husband. I just think, even if he feels the way he does, if they object so strenuously, can't he back off and let them take over?
2) I know the doctors say it's just reflexes, but if you look at those videos of her moving a bit, reacting to her family, crying, it's just hard to apply the words "brain dead."
3) This is not a humane death. This is a slow death my starvation which, if she has any ability to feel pain, will be incredibly painful. I might feel differently if it was just a matter of removing a respirator or even if they were talking about an injection that would lead to a quick and painless death.
But I find it very scary when strangers, when the government gets involved in day-to-day life, in private decisions, and it makes me extremely nervous that this could set some kind of precedent.
1. It would be easier for the husband to give up his guardianship rights. The fact that he has gone through all of this shows just how committed he is to seeing his wife’s wishes fulfilled.
2. None of the doctors who have examined her say she is “brain dead,†but in a persistent vegetative state. The part of the brain that controls lower motor functions still operates, but her cerebral cortex, which controls virtually everything else, is gone.
3. Fortunately, she can’t feel pain. And it is a shame that no other options are available, but I just don’t see a time when the population of this country becomes reasonable enough to accept the fact that sometimes people just want to die.
Allegations of Mr. Schiavo’s abuse and ill character have been made, heard, and dismissed. The only doubt that exists is created by his opponents. When she married her husband, Ms. Schiavo made a choice that this person would be the most important person in her life, over her parents and siblings. This has been the case for ages, the “common sense†of which Jack writes.
Mr. Schiavo has been fighting for his wife’s rights for fifteen years; how long would you have him wait to move on with his life? If it were me in a vegetative state, I would want my wife to kiss me goodbye, send me to my rest, and celebrate my life by finding joy in her own.
Back to the facts, why does Michael want her to die so badly, what is in it for him, what is his motivation?? Someone give me some insight. It can't be because he loves her, that was disproved when he took a now common law wife and had her children. What of Terri's injuries, head injury and broken bones? Nurses claim that Michael always used to call before the media caught wind and would ask "Is that bitch dead yet?" Unreal. I don't personally believe she is in a persistant vegetative state, but life is life, and God respects all life, and even if it is not one we would all want to live, it is hers to live and not anyone else's to take away, especially a man who clearly doesn ot love her.
Thanks, others??
God Bless Everyone This Easter. Has anyone noticed the irony in her fight and Jesus' fight with the sanhedrin? her fight with the courts? Jesus did not speak for Himself, Terri cannot speak for herself. WOW! Thank you Father for sending us your Son
Your best source for finding real insight into the situation is the voluminous repository of court documents. Here you will find the actual facts of the case.
The truth is that, at great personal cost, her husband has stood up for true beliefs and protected her from her parents who are obviously religious fanatics who care nothing for her wishes but want to amuse themselves pretending that this woman who is basically dead is their daughter. You can question his motives but you have to admit that one of his motives might well be true love. His wife has been basically dead for 15 years and he has every right to have a new relationship. Perhaps the only reason he has not divorced Terry is that, if he did, he could no longer protect her from the American Taliban.
As to the garbage about the former nurse: I wonder if she was also raped by Bill Clinton. All these court cases and these bizarre allegations have just surfaced? If you believe that you probably also believe that DeLay is doing this for moral reasons and not the fact that he is trying to save himself from being removed from office for being a crook.
Leave this family alone!
As to the latest statements that if she dies she will be condemned to hell I wonder how that position can be squared with the attempts to imply that she is being executed by the state. Either removing the feeding tube is in accordance with her wishes or she is a victim. Make a choice. Do murder victims burn in hell? You folks need to start basing your beliefs on reality rather than the ravings of primitive people who thought the earth was flat.
This is all very interesting. The United States Congress has done little to improve the medical situation of many of our older citizens and those who live in poverty. Why should they attempt to overturn the rulings of district and federal judges? Let this poor worn out body died. Terry is already gone.
What is there to question? It is her husbands decision , the court record show that he exhausted all the medical avenues to determine Terri's prognosis, the character assasination by the propaganda is unforgivable, that he has dared to be HUMAN and have human companionship with someone else is none of our business, the abuse allegations that are now surfacing have had NO MERIT in court,they were married and it is HIS decision that's the bottom line that's the law, her parents said that even if Terri had expressed she did not want to be kept alive this way, they would still be fighting to keep her alive. This is not about TERRI for them in my eyes, and I think they should be ashamed of the spectacle they have made out of their daughter. http://abstractappeal.com/schiavo/infopage.html this page contains the FACTS of the case not the NEOCON hoopla. Thanks for allowing me to vent.
" Rebuttal: a) a former nurse has submitted to court a signed affidavit attesting to Michael Schiavo’s behavior and statements saying he wished his wife dead for the money"
REAL REBUTTAL a)UMM I read both affidavits and it seems odd to me that BOTH these affidavits from two different nurses tell the same EXACT story of the "towel in her hand" they also both allege bizarre ILLEGAL medical abuse that should have been reported to AUTHORITIES and was not by BOTH Of them. CARLA
JOHNSON
As to the charge of the money...What money?? Even the Terri Schiavo Foundation reports that of the nearly one million dollar malpractice settlement earmarked for Terri's future medical care, less than $50,000 is left. The Terri Schiavo Foundation also acknowledges that Schiavo offered to donate whatever money he stood to inherit to charity if Terri's parents would stop trying interfere with his right to make medical decisions on behalf of his wife. SO now what ?
" b) Bone scans show broken bones unaccounted for by Terri’s family, who say should be investigated since Terri never mentioned them. Spousal abuse is a possibility, they say, for who does not tell their family they have broken bones?"
Well as the facts have shown, Terri Schiavo was not a healthy young woman. Her heart stopped because of a potassium imbalance induced by severe bulimia nervosa. There is no firm evidence that anyone abused Terri. A judge ruled the abuse allegation irrelevant years ago, but Terri's "supporters" are determined to keep meme alive just to destroy Michael Schiavo's reputation. Here is the deposition of the radiologist who analyzed Terri's bone scan, Dr. William Campbell Walker. DEPOSITION Walker acknowledges that the abnormalities on the bone scan could have been caused by Schiavo's collapse, vigorous CPR, an earlier car accident, prolonged immobility, or aggressive physiotherapy.
Try reading the FACTS of the case and stop feeding into the baseless claims.
as to the rest of your TYRADE I find it irrelavent and useless as well as LAUGHABLE specially the DE LAY part.
I'm not on a "tyrade." Just trying to keep the conversation polite and on topic.
shift his guilt. How does anyone know if she suffers in this action? With that thought in mind, would you do it to your child?
1) Terri's parents were the one's who asked the court to make Michael her guardian. He lived in their home for the first three years after her collapse, and had a close relationship with them, in which they were very complimentary towards him and his care of their daughter. They encouraged him to begin dating after several years. They never raised the claim he had abused their daughter, until after he received the $700,000 award for her care, and they asked to share in the proceeds.
2) All of the hospice and nursing home staff interviewed, praised Michael for the care he provided, and suggested essentially, he could be a pain in the neck, in terms of his requests for staff assistance. He went to school and got his nursing license to help care for her. He actively pursued treatment, rehabilitation and alternative therapies for Terri, for the first 3 years after her collapse, including flying her to California for experimental treatment to have thalamic stimulators inplanted in her brain. Only after exhausting all of these treatments, and seeing no improvement, did he concede that she was in a PVS. At that point, he asked the court to make a decision about her care.
3) The GAL found that charges that Michael has mismanaged the $700,000 awarded for her care, were unfounded. He never made the decision on how funds were spent. The court had to approve all expenditures.
4) The two nurses who alleged that Michael abused Terri, or said that there was a cover-up about what she was actually capable of, were not found to be credible by the court.
5) Terri's parents testified that even if Terri had told them that she wouldn't want to be maintained in her current state, that they would override her wishes. In fact, they testified that they would continue to maintain her in this state, even if she had to have all of her limbs amputated, and open heart surgery performed.
Here's the link to the report: http://abstractappeal.com/schiavo/WolfsonReport...
In fact the whole abstractappeal website, is loaded with all the court documents filed in the case.
The Doctor who is often quoted and interviewed, and who Bill Frist referenced on TV this weekend, is named Dr. William Hammesfahr. He is one of the two MD's her parents had examine her prior to the court hearing. He is often reported as having been nominated for a Noble Peace Prize for Medicine. There is no such prize. Nominees for a Noble Peace Prize are confidential, and are not released for 50 years. The Prize committee asks high ranking individuals in the arts, medicine, and science for make the nominations. He is right that two individuals wrote letters to the Prize Committee, after he asked them to. One was written from Florida House of Rep., Michael Bilirakis, and the other from the National V.P. of the Nat'l Assoc of Chiefs of Police, G.D.M. Munson, III.
I've provided links to the letters, which Dr. Hammesfahr provides on his website.
www.hni-online.com/nominating_letter-for-the_No...
www.hni-online.com/nobel_prize_nomination.htm
Dr. Hammesfahr was fined by Florida state for unethical medical practices. He is listed on the Quackwatch website. If you don't believe me, ask yourself how many reputible MD's buy advertisements in the National Enquirer.
www.hni-online.com/national_enquirer_1999.htm
Meanwhile, Terri's parents have been cited and fined by Florida for illegal fundraising, which isn't getting any press. Ask yourself if your daughter was in Terri's situation, if you would sell videos of her in her room, for a $100 "donation."
Her parents want to keep her alive and what if that is not what she wanted? what if Terri did not want to be kept alive this way? I did not know her her, the courts determined that she would not want to live this way.
If people are so outraged by the law that says we have to sit by and watch someone in this type if case die of starvation then why is there no clamor to change it so there is a medical assisted alternative :?:
What does anyone actually know of this man and his wife to make any determinations about his guilt and guilt about what ? Terri suffered massive brain damage. Terri is in a vegetative state because her higher brain centers have been destroyed and replaced by fluid. So what you think she is feeling she is not. Where is the call from her parents to EDUCATE young women on the horrible consequences of bulimia nervosa. :idea:
or not im only twelve and god wants her to live than she will live.
that she cant talk and tell us if she wants to live or not.
This just proves to me that we are truly Americans… if something doesn’t work right lets get rid of it and get another one. Isn’t that right Michael? I’m sure that million dollars will assist you in building your new family. In addition are you really that much of a coward that you have to have your brother speak to the media. And what of this eating disorder that Terri had? How much did you contribute to that? You obviously had to see what she was going through. Funny how things come full circle; we take away one of her eating disorders just to give her another one. Has anyone thought that by removing her feeding tube that these doctors are just contributing to her demise?
There is no proof in writing that Terri would not want to be kept alive, just her husband’s word and we can certainly see how much of a stand up individual this man is. I’m not a religious man, but I would imagine that any God fearing Christian would appreciate and honor the sanctity of marriage. Have we really become a nation of killers and thieves? I would like to think not, but from the postings I’ve been reading and the recent court decisions I am beginning to lose faith in my fellow Americans. Terri has committed no crimes, why should we sentence her to death???
Why should her husband divorce her? Won't that break the vow "til death do us part"? And if the Schindlers have asked him to divorce Terri Schiavo (as Michael above said) aren't they then encouraging something the Roman Catholic faith frowns upon?
Rest assured, that any moneis that Mr. Schiavo has received has been spent on his wife's care and lawyers fees. I am sure he had not benefited financially from this whole ordeal. Additionally, the parents seem to turn on him when he realized he had to "let go" of his life with Terri and move on with his own. I don't know one person that would want their spouses not to live their life and move on, if they are unable to have a "life" with their spouse.
I think many of you who are condemning Mr. Schiavo are too quick to judge. You have NO idea what it is like to watch someone you love or are married to being sustained by artificial means, including force feeding from a feeding tube. That might keep her breathing...but it isn't giving her a life whatsoever. She can't talk, communicate in any true form that is understandable, she can't watlk, do anything for herself. What kind of life is that? That is not living...that is "being"...nothing more. She is not in a coma, and many of you seem to confuse coma with vegatative states.
Some of you argue that she should be tested and observed by medical experts... all of that has been done for YEARS and years. Having some christian right doctor say that she is not in a vegastative state is absolutely ridiculous. IF there was any supported evidence that Terri Schiavo could come out of this vegatiatve state, and again have a normal life, there is NO way all these courts would order her feeding tube removed. The evidence has shown clearly that she has zero chance of recovering. Why can't all of you just realize that and accept it? Why can't just realize that this is a terrible terrible tragedy, and that everything possilbe to bring her "back" from a vegatative state. It is just crazy to think otherwise...let the poor woman die in peace... and find a better afterlife with God.
the hubby wants to remarry and get the $$$$$$$$
stupid pig jerk- he is the reason she is in this state- worried about her weight
the whole thing makes :oops: me want to PUKE :twisted: !
Ashley, that was probably the least eloquent posting so far, but you certainly made your opinion known. :P
And finally, Michael Schiavo did NOT make the decision to pull her feeding tube. He asked the courts to decide whether the tubes should be removed (but he did testify he thought the tube should be removed). He could have had the tube removed before it ever went to court, but he decided that it was best to let the courts to decide. ALSO... even after he went to court, according to court testimony, Michael Schiavo has been the most frequent visitor and advocate for Terri to receive proper care.
I honestly think you should read the links from #57 above before you judge Michael to be "suspect" of being dishonorable. It is really tragic that all this has happened, but it is clear that the parents and the siblings are hell bent on reversing the courts repeated decisions that they will do or say anything to discredit Michael Schiavo. I am not saying he is a saint, but there is NO evidence that he abused his wife, no evidence that he was anything but a supportive husband that finally gave up that his wife could recover (see court documents that state how he tried all sorts of agressive treatments to try to reverse her brain damage over the years), and there is NO evidence that he is truly out for her money. ANY monies that he received from the lawsuit he brought have long been spent on Terri's care through a trust fund he set up upon receiving the award. Her trust has less that $50k left in it for her care... so the he is out for her money is clearly ridiculious).
thanks for listening...
The records show that he has spent nearly all he was awarded in a lawsuit towards her care. The little that is left (about 50K) is still in trust and goes towards the cost of Terri's medical expenses... so the claims that Terri's brother is making on all the talk shows is completely false.
Court records also state that there is evidence to support that Michael Schiavo has spent more time caring and visiting Terri that any other person, including her "loving" parents or siblings. They also indicate that that parents and Michael lived together for the first several years after Terri's heart attack occured. The parents encouraged Michael to move on with his life, and they encouraged him to seek another mate. They were supportive of him completely until they asked him for half of the monies he sued for malpractice against doctors that misdiagnosed Terri befor her heart attack. Then they said he was keeping money from them, and then they said he was abusive and cheated on her. How does one cheat on someone that is in a vegastative state, when the parents told him he should move on?
This whold case is a terrible tragedy. I mourn for ALL parties, including the parents. It is heartbreaking that their daughter is irriversably brain dead, and that she has no life other than "being" and I am sure that is very hard to live with... and I feel sorry that they have chosen to drag out their misery and drag Michael through the mud to make him look like he is a murderer. The fact is he asked the courts to decide whether to pull the feeding tube. It had to be the most difficult thing to a spouse has to endure...to admit there is nothing left that can be done for your wife and ask the courts to make the decision as to what is best. The courts have spoken LOUD and CLEAR>>> OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
My only question is why are people so quick to judge without educating themselves with the FACTS and the court transcripts? Or to judge people without walking a mile in their shoes? I just fail to understand that...
stupid pig jerk"
Opinion.
"he is the reason she is in this state- worried about her weight"
Prove it.
I would also point out that it is difficult to simultaneously accuse Terri's parents of doing this for the money while at the same time claiming there is no money left.
I've blasted my congressman via email for politicizing the issue and for federal intervention in state affairs. As a Conservative it galls me to no end that this sad case is being used to pander to a voting bloc.
At the very least, I've started drawing up an advance directive.
When I sited #57 above, I was referring to the actual court documents. I read ALL of this info, and that is where my comments have come from. AND Michael Schiavo is NOT the only person who had heard comments from Terri Schiavo saying she would not want anyone to keep her alive if she could not take care of herself. There were others that testified to her wishes as well.
Besides, you are calling Michael Schiavo adulterous... and according to the court documents, and earlier reports, Terri's parents ENCOURAGED Michael to start life anew BEFORE he moved out (they all moved in together for several years after Terri's heart attack). Court documents also showed that at the beginning the parents wanted Michael to be Terri's legal guardian (as he should be as her husband). This was before there were ANY legal disputes about pulling the feeding tube. They encouraged him to divorce his wife before the question of taking the tube out, and before he sued the doctors who mis-diagnosed Terry Schiavo. Therefore, I think it is hardly a case of Michael Schiavo committing adultery. And I still question how he is an adulterer when the poor woman is a being and not living? And when her parents told him he should move on and find happiness???
Also, according to doctors and medical professional's testimony, even after the initial court case where Michael Schiavo asked the courts to decide (and I stress he asked them the court to decide) it was reported to the court that Michael Schiavo was Terri's most frequent visitor, visiting more than her parents or siblings. He was very much apart of rehabilitative efforts. According to the judges' opinion, Michael Schiavo did everything he could to revive his wife, and even went to school to become a medical professional that could help care for his wife. He also took her to California for aggressive therapy to try to help her come back to life... Additionally, it was not until Michael Schiavo successfully sued Terri's doctors, that the parents of Terri Schiavo made any accusations (and that is all they are, accusations and hearsay) started a smear campaign that he was an adulterer after inheritance. They sued to try to get him to give them some of the proceeds of the amount the settlement. Michael put all the money in trust to take care of Terri Schiavo...so he wasn't being greedy like the brother has been stating in all the talk shows this week. The brother failed to mention ALL of the proceeds went to Terri's care and that there is only $50k left.
I find it very interesting how the parents turned on Michael Schiavo AFTER he sued the doctors and he didn't give them any money he was awarded. BEFORE that lawsuit, they encouraged him to make a life for himself... THEN he wins a lawsuit, continues to care for her... goes to school to become a medical professional to help take care of her. His "mistake" is that he A) met someone and fell in love and B).and not paying them off part of the settlement. Terri's family accuses him of being a creep who wants to kill his wife and is sleeping with another woman.... ONLY after they didn't get money. Only after he asked the COURT to decide if the feeding tube should be removed...
I feel for all of them... but whatthe parents of Terri Schiavo have done is just terrible... keeping their daughter alive when she has no life and dragging this on and on...and smearing Michael Schiavo looks like pure and simple vindictiveness because they didn't get to "control" everything.
Schiavos parents and Mr. Schiavo had a falling out when he refused to share the 300 k that he was awarded for his loss.
FACTS OF CASE
You know who really benefits from trying to force Terri to live in this condition , THE LAWYERS.
And if you are all so sad about people starving to death, send some money to your local food pantry or to the people in Africa who are really starving.
I believe people have a right not to live in a vegetative state, and to have their wishes respected. I also believe that if Terri is in such a state, she will not suffer if she is allowed to die.
But her husband abandoned her, and has no right in this case to make any decision for her. Their marriage is, in my opinion, a legal fiction, and it is a sad remnant of patr4iarchy that allows him this power over his 'wife.'
THE FACTS speak for themselves. THE COURT DOCUMENTS prove that Michael Schiavo used money he was awarded in a lawsuit, and NOT an inheritance to take care of Terri Schiavo. He put $700K in trust, of which only about $50K is left. THERE IS NO INHERITANCE... that is total and complete nonsense.
The court documents also state that Michael Schiavo was awarded $300k for his suffering. Terri's parents wanted Michael Schiavo to split it with them. And he declined to do so. UNTIL that point, they all lived together. Until that point, they encouraged him to start a new life. DESPITE all of this that is document, you all accuse him of being an adulterer and money grubbing jerk. IT IS THE PARENTS that were greedy and wanted the MONEY. THEY NEVER disagreed with Michael Schiavo til he said that it was his lawsuit, and his award. THE parents SUPPORTED Michael to be the guardian and ONLY asked for that to be changed after his lawsuit.
Additionally, if Michael Schiavo is so cold blooded why didn't he have her tube pulled long before he asked the COURT to decide what was best? He could have EASILY had her tube taken out YEARS ago. If he was cold blooded why did he get an education in the medical field solely to try to care for his wife? Why did the homes and hospice she was in say he was a pain in the butt for complaining about the treatment/care Terri was receiving? Why did he put money ($700K) in trust to care for Terri? Why did he do all those things? Because he CARED people.
All of you that are casting your stones are lobbing them in the wrong direction. Read the court documents for the FACTS. And for all you "christians"...and I use that word loosely, you should be ashamed that you are using religion to condemn Michael Schiavo.
Her parents encouraged him to move on with another woman and start a life. They encouraged him to divorce her (as supposedly good catholics). I think that is very hypocrytical. Especially since they asked him to do this in the midst of his lawsuit... I personally smell their greed here... get divorce, give us custody and give us money. They had NO legal rights at all and tried to get laws changed by the fed. gov't... don't you all see how dangerous that was and will be now? Terri's parents really have created a firestorm of controversy...and it will effect us all from now on since big brother wants to control us... so much for the republican stance to take big gov't out of our lives and give states control of what happens in their states...
I just don't get how you condemn Michael Schiavo when evidence shows he has done everything for his wife... and has been very humane to her. Keeping her alive is cruel and unproductive... she has no life...she is a 'being"...no thoughts, no feelings, no pain. What kind of life is that? NONE!
My position is: I think it should be left up to Terri. And since I don't believe Terri's wishes are clear, we should err on the side of life. The idea of government-sanctioned taking of innocent but inconvenient life appalls me.
For instance, when Terri's parents and Michael were caring for Terri, of course they told him they'd want him to move on. After it was all over. They probably do not have such loving hopes for him since they believe he is trying to kill their daughter. And yes, they have since asked him to divorce their daughter. Even Catholics would choose divorce over murder. And regardless of whether you think they they gave him permission, he's still involved in an adulterous affair.
Condemning Christians because we want to be careful before an innocent life is ended strikes me as unusual. We hold this position because we hold human life to be sacred. Is that something worth condemning?
1) What if Terri really wanted to live?
2) If there's no money left, why do Terri's parent want her to live, except for the fact they love their daughter?
I respect your thoughts on the sanctity of life... I truly do. And no, I don't wish to see Terri die, but don't you understand she is NOT living, and is just a being that is breathing. How is she alive? She has no brain function, cannot do or say anything, and the doctors say she has no feelings/thoughts.
By the way, I am a practicing Catholic. I don't condemn all Catholics or Christians. But I do condemn those who use "christian" principles for their arguments here. I do condemn those who use tragedies like these to push their agendas and to push their conservative lawmakers to break public trust by changing laws to suit their own politic agendas. If you think these lawmakers that have any real feelings for Terri Schiavo or her parents, you are sadly mistaken. They see her case as an ends to a means...to win more votes with conservatives in upcoming elections... and that truly makes me sick. Terri Schiavo is nothing more than a pawn. How can you NOT see that???
The decent human thing to do is to let her go, and the court recognizes that Terri is not able to have a real life. It is sad that all this has happened, and you might not think I am compassionate for my stance, but I have a lot of compassion... MOSTLY for Terri. It is truly unfortunate that her wishes were not recorded in writing. But since there isn't, the court has deemed it to be appropriate to remove Terri's feeding tube.
What has appauled me the most is that Michael Schiavo has been made out to be a culprit. The court documents clearly state that Terri's parents told him to move on well before any of these court hearings, and while he was still living with them. They only started saying he was a cheat and didn't love their daughter and was after inheritance (and it turns out not to be an inheritance at all, but a settlement with the doctors who mis-diagnosed Terri to begin with) when Michael Schiavo asked the courts to determine if Terri should remain or be removed from her feeding tube.
I don't see how you can honestly say he is cheating when his wife is NOT alive or living a real life. It is a matter of symantics here. Terri Schiavo may be breathing, but she hasn't "lived" in over 15 years... The facts show that although Michael Schiavo is in a loving relationship with another woman now, and has children by her, he spent many years trying to get Terri treatments to reverse her brain damage. He went to school to become certified to help care for her and set up a trust fund to take care of her medical bills. He has visited her more than anyone else including her parents. That hardly sounds like a man who is trying to "murder" his wife. He simply has done everything he can to help her...and to no avail. He simply wants to let her go since he could not help her "live" a normal life.
Oh, one more thing Michael, I had a parent who was in a vegatative state... and it was heart breaking. My mother did not have a living will either. We watched and waited...watched and waited. My mother was very vibrant woman and was always on the go. To watch her in that state and not have any abilities to communicate or be productive was heart wrenching... her five children all decided together that she should be allowed to be let go after many hours of prayer and consultation with our priests. It was not an overnight decision. I am just grateful in the end we all agreed that our mother was not able to overcome her illness and that to allow her to remain helpless and lifeless was the wrong thing to do. And you know what, I feel confident (along with my siblings) that my mother is a much better place now and not suffering or living a shell of a life which she would of hated.
I know it is hard to let go...trust me, I was only 23 years old when we had to let our mother go...it was one of the hardest, if not the hardest decision of my life. And I am sure it is the hardest thing that Michael and her parents will have to deal with for the rest of their lives (for different reasons). The what ifs will always be present for both sides of the fence.
I just pray that once Terri have left this life, she can live again with God in peace, with no one fighting over for control over her life. And I hope that Terri's parents and family can move on too... and rejoice the life Terri once had before she was stricken by her heart attack.
It is sickening to me that the federal government and President George Dubbya Bush have tried to intervene in this issue. Do most of you not realize that this is a form of them trying to control all facets of law in our country? Does this mean that every time the right doesn't agree with the rest of us, that they will manipulate the laws of our land to get their agenda across?
And I disagree with you about Michael's adulterous relationship. If that's where his heart is, fine, but he should reliquish his control to Terri's parents.
If Terri had a Living Will, perhaps I'd feel different. The amatuer psychologist in me would suggest that you support Terri's death as a justification that you did the right thing by your mother. In your case, though, the family all agreed. In Terri's case, they do not.
I still don't see how you can say Michael is an adulterer. He has never hid behind any veils. Terri's parents and everyone that was close to him told him to move on with his life well before there were any arguments about whether her feeding tube should be removed. They encouraged him to find someone, yet they condemn him for it now... and they did not do so until they disagreed on Terri's care.
Besides you keep forgeting one thing, the COURT decided Terri's fate. Even if Michael Schiavo changed his mind, once he asked the courts to decide what was in the best interest of his wife, he didn't have a right to chose for her anymore. He may be Terri's guardian, but that does not change any of the rulings.
As far as it goes with my mother, we didn't all agree for quite awhile... and agreeing made it no easier. Besides which many of her siblings did NOT agree with it. It is the hardest thing one has to do,to let go of a loved one. And you are wrong about me having to justify myself... I have absolutely nothing to feel guilty about. My mom was not living when she died.
And how do you know that God isn't directing all of this that is happening? If God is so powerful, and can control anything or any part of our lives, how do you know he didn't orchestrate this outcome? I just wish you would learn more about this case before you condemn Michael Schiavo. I am not saying he is a perfect person, because NONE of us are... far from it. But I think he is not the terrible person you have made him out to be. He has stood by her all these years when it would have been easier to walk away and wash his hands of all of this mess. Instead, he has fought for Terri's right to die. What does he have to gain from all of this? He has spent years dealing with this mess... it sure would have been a lot easier to sign papers over, and let the parents take responsibility. He didn't do that because he was honoring Terri's wishes. Perhaps Terri was not nearly as religious as her parents claim, or perhaps they didn't really know her wishes.
So we're not going to agree. Take care.
I agree you are right, I have no idea what Terri wanted. That is not the main point. The courts stated that they think there was sufficient evidence that she didn't want to live if she could not have a *life*. It is Michael and his witnesses vs. Terri's parents and their witnesses.
You keep condemning Michael, when you should be condemning the court because you don't agree with their decision. Michael gave his right away to decide by asking the court to decide for him. If you don't agree with the courts rulings, I respect that. But it seems unfair and unreasonable that you are condemning her husband. In lieu of a living will, it is reasonable for the court to look to the husband, and not to the parents as the best source of what Terri's wishes were.
Really in the end, our opinions don't really mean all that much. God will decide in the end if this was handled correctly and everyone will be held accountable for their actions regardless of what we think and feel.
In any event my prayers are with all concerned in this tragedy.
Tell me Michael where is your evidence for the above allegations ? How are these allegations substanciated and supported ? You are ignoring the factthat none of the "allegations" against Michael have been shown in court to have any veracity. Have you read the Report from the Guardian that was appointed to Terri or are you IGNORING that>? By the way its not what HER parents want that matters.
I wasn't aware any of those issues were in dispute. Michael wants Terri to die, and the courts have given Michael broad leeway in how Terri should be treated.
And I know her parents are getting their way. That's why I think the law is bad.
Last night I was listenening to airhead america radio and they brought up that "the conservatives and the republicans are on the ban wagon for marriage, but that they are hypocrites." They said the reason that they are hypocrites is because Michael Schrivo is the husband of Terry and he has the right to decide whether she lives or dies." Well let's consider what kind of husband he is.
Michael Schriver is an unfaithful, adulterer. He broke covenant with his wife to stand by her side for better or for worse. Michael this is the worse part of the contract, but you abandoned your wife. Now we as a nation are endorsing the inhumane torture of this dear precious woman. You know what animals have more rights than Terry Schrivo does. If a dog, cat, or horse were to be found in an inhumane environment where they are malnourished, neglected, being starved, having no water, those responsible for such inhumane treatment would be in jail. But what do we do, we let a judge and an adulterer go home at night and be with their families while this woman perishes. Truly many hearts in America have grown cold. Truly we live in a culture of death and I say to all American's who support the demise of this woman, shame on you, you're pathetic and you're cowards.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.â€
John 13:34 NIV
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
We all watch this case, and we have our views. I wonder how many of you who have posted messages here filled with hatred and bile consider yourselves Christians. Have you even considered the two statements above? You should recognize them. They are instructions from our Lord and Saviour.
Has Michael sought comfort in the arms of another woman and had children? Yes. Is it a sin? Yes. Is it understandable? I think so. I've heard conflicting reports of how long he has been with this other woman, and how old their children are. All of his should take a few moments to put ourselves in his shoes and think about what it must be have been like for these fifteen years. Michael and the Schindlers deserve our compassion. They also deserve for the American people to butt-out. That is what the Schindlers need, even if they don't realize it.
How many of you have been in the unenviable position of choosing to have someone's life support removed? If you've never had to face this choice, you may not be qualified to offer an opinion. I know from experience that a person's brain stem can create an illusion of life where none exists. If someone is truly in a vegetative state, a feeding tube that's placement required surgery is life support. I am not in favor of assisted suicide.
Move on with your lives. Learn from this and get a Living Will making your wishes known. Drop to your knees and thank the Lord that you haven't had to be go through what Michael and the Schindlers had. Pray that you never have to endure it. Pray for everyone who is involved in this tragedy.
Sign me horrified.
I've read over this thread and see very little from Christians except love and compassion. You ought to see the vile comments from people who hate Christians that *didn't* get posted. Whew.
I truly hope the ordeal ends soon, because the longer it drags out, the worse it will ultimately be for everyone.
No matter how anyone feels about Michael Schiavo, it doesn't matter because the courts have decided what is best for Terri Schiavo, based on all of the evidence they have received from all parties. They have ruled that Terri can't have a "real life" in a vegatative state and that they believe that it is HER wish to be taken off life support. Feeding tubes are a form of life support because she is unable to feed herself or swallow. It is not assisted suicide or murder to remove life support.
And I agree with the guy that says you have NO idea what it is like unless you have had to endure this kind of suffering or decision making. Nor is it any business of ours to interfere with her husband's decision or that of the courts.
On my way home tonight I heard about how there was a "bounty" on Michael Schiavo and some of the judges... that only goes to show how right wing christians react when they don't get their way. They KILL when they are against abortion too... is that kind of behavior truly Christian? I KNOW NOT. People lke that give true christians a very bad name.... not to mention they are a bunch of hypocrites threatening to kill someone because they don't agree with the court or the guardian's right to remove the feeding tube.
I hope he has the pleasure to watch one of his children be starved to death !
For that matter, anyone that has had the opportunity to save her and hasn't !
Including Michele Schiavo, any Congressmen , Senator, Governor and President .
Moving on now. Biblically speaking, human life is sacred. It is sacred because according to Genesis 1:26-27; 5:1) man that being humankind is made in the image and likeness of God. So whether a person is severly deformed, wracked with pain over a terminal illness, or in a vegetative state, their intrinsic value or worth is found in the fact that they bear the image of God. Furthermore life is sacred because it is God who gives and sustains it. And to treat it lightly or with disregard is the supreme act of unthankfulness. Disregard for human life also suggest that man not God is the one who gives it and owns it. Finally killing is condemned in both the Old and the New Testament, with the exception of killing in self-defense, capital punishment, and a just war. None of these instance apply to Terri, so her death is a crime in the sight of God. Judge Greer, Michael Schiavo, and all other who want Terri to die, are guilty of taking the prerogative of God in their hands, and people you will soon give an account to Him.
Please write back.
Patrick
I really get weary when someone quotes the bible to me, as they always pick passages to push their agendas. Well, even though I am a Christian, I truly believe the bible was written by human beings in what they interpret God's wishes to be.... how do you KNOW God wrote the bible? If you know God sustains us, and gives us life, then why does he choose to let some die and some live? If God truly wanted Terri to live, then he would give her back a productive life, or at least one in which she could communicate to us.
If God truly wanted to save Terri from death, then a miracle will happen very shortly and she will be able to tell us that she is alive and wants to live. Short of that, your argument doesn't hold much water.
As far as a feeding tube to sustain Terri, thank God that He would use medicine and science to be able to do that. Let me ask you this. If God wanted a baby to live would He just leave that littler person to fend for themselves? Can they support themselves? No, that is why He gives them loving mommy and daddys to care for their needs. Is it not the most humane thing to care for Terri rather than allow her to starve and dehydrate? Would you do that to an infant?
Now, Beth, that's just crazy talk! To kill Michael Schiavo would be aborting a baby in the 160th trimester.
Honestly, though, it looks like Michael Schiavo and some of the judiciary probably *will* be targeted by nutjobs. Let's hope that doesn't happen.
And let me extend my heartfelt condolences about your mom. I can't possibly imagine what you all went through.
Unfortunately there are a lot of nut jobs out there. And threatening and/or killing them will not solve anything, it will only worsen this dispute. And even if people are upset about the direction this case has gone in, it has gone through the courts for 10 years now with the same results every time. I don't see any court reversing the original decision given all the courts that have reviewed it to date. The Supreme Court would not even hear it...period.
My prayer is that everyone close to Terri can find some kind of peace regardless of the final outcome. It is clear they all love her very much, but just disagree on what is best for her.
I also hope that this whole tragedy being brought to the forefront of the public eye will encourage everyone that is an adult to file a living will with their own wishes.
Happy Easter to you Dan...and to everyone.
So where is the links and or transcripts that support what you said ? You did not post them.
" I wasn’t aware any of those issues were in dispute. Michael wants Terri to die, "
Why do you say that? He does not want to force her to live in a vegetative state he knew her you did not. The accusations you are repeating are most certainly in issue because they are false, but if you have some concrete evidence to show they are true please show me .
Terri's family list "Myths, Questions & Facts", including the restrictions that Michael prohibits certain types of medical care, interactions with family, and prohibited stimulation.
I acknowledge that I do not know what Terri wanted. Neither do you. Since there is a reasonable dispute, the government shouldn't be mandating death by starvation. It's barbaric.
If you think that the "myths, questions and facts" presented by Terri's family is "gospel" and not slanted in any way, then you are really much more naive than I had previously thought. That sight is propaganda designed to get their way in having her feeding tube reinserted and for them to try to get custody. It is a desperate attempt to malign Michael Schiavo.
You are right. No one knows for certain what Terri's wish is. But the TRUE facts remain, Terri's guardian is Michael Schiavo. Terri's parents agreed long ago that he should be guardian. Michael Schiavo asked the courts to decide this issue, and they have made their decision loud and clear that they believe from the evidence presented that Terri's wish was not to have to live in a vegatative state. Apparently Terri's parents have not proven otherwise.
Additionally the Schindlers latest stunt of desperation to get the feeding tube reinserted only weakens their already shaky credibility in this matter. The judge already said that he believed that based on EVIDENCE presented in court that he believes it was Terri's wish not to be kept alive by any artificial means, including having a feeding tube. Telling a judge that Terri spoke to them last week to say that she wanted to live is just ridiculous. Had Terri really spoke to them in those words, they would have contacted the courts right then and there. they would have summoned witnesses immediately. Who do they think they are fooling???
If you want to site facts, please find facts that can be sited...and don't include that link above because those are not facts...but supposition and inuendo...nothing more.
Your statement that "Terri is not living" is disputed by Terri's family and the doctors they have hired. I acknowledge the dispute, something which you won't do.
Of course the links at Terri's Fight are slanted in favor of saving Terri's life. They're trying to save her life. Michael's statements are biased, too, but in the opposite direction because he's trying to end her life. That's why the whole thing ended up in court.
Terri's parents do not agree that Michael should be her guardian. They've filed repeatedly to revoke that. Florida law appoints Michael as her guardian. That doesn't mean he has her best wishes in mind.
Terri's family could care less at this point what you think. They're trying to save their daughter's life. The "latest stunt" as you put it could have very well been on TV if Michael ever permitted cameras in there.
As for guardianship, at the beginning of this whole ordeal the Schindlers encouraged Michael to move on. When everything he did to help her didn't work and he did give up and move on they simply turned on him. I wish you could see that. They didn't petetion the courts til after he won a settlement and they wanted a piece of the pie.
Oh, I am not saying they don't love their daughter, or course they do. But they need to accept that they are NOT her guardians and it is NOT their decision.
You seem to forget one thing or be completely unaware that the majority of the medical community at large seem to dispute what the octors that the Schindlers have hired and deem them to be less than reputable. All the other doctors commenting on this case are the tops in their field and/or are regular care givers to Terri. The majority of the health care professionals all support the facts that Terri can't get any better and will never recover.
It really doesn't matter to me what you think Terri's parents think of me or not. Besides I am sure they wouldn't care.
I just hope this all ends soon for all of them. The longer it goes on, the worse it gets for everyone involved.
I told you earlier we would not agree, but please don't insult me by telling me I'm reaching. I recognize there are two sides in dispute. My opinion is precisely that it is in dispute that Terri should not be killed. You are summarily dismissing opinions that do not agree with you, so we will not agree.
- It's not 100% true that Terri would want to die. No living will, no written record, only the testimony of Michael and his relatives. Court sided with Michael, dismissed Terri's family's contention that Terri would want to live. Any objective person might conclude that either side may be right.
- *If* Terri would not want to die, then a government-sanctioned killing of an innocent human being is terrible law. The threshold for determining Terri's desire should be higher.
- Killing her by starvation is barbaric. Death row inmates are put to sleep painlessly. If you want to kill her, then kill her already. Don't pretend that by watching her starve helplessly while you stand by and watch that somehow your hands are clean.
I think the arguments have been well hashed on both sides. For the most part, the comments were reasonable and polite and well-thought. I thank everybody for participating; comments are now closed. *click*
Comments are back open now. Everybody play nice. :)
have a great day you guys
Other issues that bother me. the influence of religious beliefs on medical opinions. Some of the "experts" saying she is not in a vegetative state have never seen a CT scan, but oppose the entire diagnoses of PVS. Hmmm.
I can't figure out what is in this for the husband. Not money, he has apparently been offered millions to let her live. So what then...
Why the name calling? There are serious issues involved here that deserve to be discussed and debated, but I have heard people on both sides, but particularly the right resort to name calling and character assassination. It disappoints me in my own party.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion on these issues, but please, become informed with the facts. how many of you have read the original decision of Judge Greers finding that Terry would not want ot live in a vegetative state? Is it shocking that a person wouldn't want to live like that? And to suggest that the "government" is doing this to Terry is stunning, given that both the Florida legislature and the US Congress tried to intervene into an otherwise personal issue on behalf of the PARENTS!
Let's not believe all the talking heads out there. Saying there are disputes about her condition doesn't make it so. Saying her husband abused her (in the ocmplete absence of any evidence by the way) doesn't make it true. Learn the real facts, not the myths, and then decide. Reasonable people can still disagree, just do it knowledgeably.
Feel free to post your opinion, either pro or con, but be respectful of the other posters and their beliefs.
I’ve been keeping tabs of the insight people have been putting into this sight. I found some outright disturbing, while others have been very interesting. I give my thanks to Michael for making this sight possible; it has given me an up close perspective of the opinions of many diverse people.
In regards to the Schiavo family I send my deepest condolences. I hope that over time the many wounds that have been dealt to the entire family, including Schiavo’s husband, can heal.
I choose not to enter my opinion whether or not Schiavo’s death was justified in the end. This is an impossible judgment to make. Personality I would not want to live while in a vegetate sate, but as I said that would be my wish, perhaps not for Schiavo.
I do wish to sate my belief that the government had no right to intrude on this personal family matter. When something as personal and socially disturbing as this makes national news it can only lead to trouble. Mark my words, Schiavo may be dead, but this transgression is far from over for the religious advocates on the side of keeping Schiavo alive. I truly hope that no hate crimes follow this tragedy. This is a time of healing, not retaliation.
Let's also face it, there will always be a niggling suspicion that Terri Schiavo really told her husband she would not want to live in a vegetative state.
Godspeed, Terri.
As I read on one site earlier today, "We weren't really sure one way or the other what Terri wanted, so we decided to starve her to death."
Michael:
What was your take on the baby that was taken off life support at Texas Children's Hospital recently? (link)(link)(link)
I read the links you sent, enough to know that there are both similarities and differences. The baby was on life support and suffered a fatal illness and not expected to live anyway. Still, my initial response is that the parents should have been given some way to care for their baby since that's what they wished.
http://capwiz.com/sicminc/issues/alert/?alertid...
http://www.emediawire.com/releases/2005/4/emw22...
My account, etc. of Terri Schindler's Funeral Mass:
http://tekgnosis.typepad.com
Would that be the Republican elite or the Democratic elite?
Was Alabama's Judge Roy Moore an activist judge for installing a monument to Commandments on the courthouse lawn in the middle of the night? Could the federal judges that struck down segregation and enforced unpopular civil rights laws be considered activist?
I strongly suspect that we hang "activist" moniker on whatever jurist fails to rule in concert with our personal opinion(s).
Roy Moore can't be considered an activist because he didn't make any rulings regarding the monument. Sure, it was still something he wanted to do regardless of laws, but he didn't pass any rulings about it.
The federal judges that "struck down segregation and enforced unpopular civil rights" can't be considered activists either because of that one key word before "unpopular civil rights". They were enforcing laws that already existed, and therefore were not creating their own.
This is not to say republicans can't have their own activists same as the democrats, but they tend to not be as rampant or as numerous as the democratic activists.
Good point about the civil rights enforcement. That was a bad example on my part.
As for Judge Moore, he has in the past let his personal beliefs influence his rulings and courtroom behavior. When running for the Alabama Supreme Ct., one of his campaign promises was to take his courtroom plaque of the Commandments with him. In Feb 2002, he ruled against a woman retaining custody of her three children for the sole reason that she was/is a lesbian. In the opinion which he drafted, he quoted verses from Genesis and Leviticus, as well as citing the death penalty as punishment for homosexuality. Here's a quote from Moore's own opinion:
"The State carries the power of the sword, that is, the power to prohibit conduct with physical penalties, such as confinement and even execution. It must use that power to prevent the subversion of children toward this lifestyle, to not encourage a criminal lifestyle."
After losing his Nov 2002 legal battle to keep the monument in the courthouse rotunda, he said:
"Federal district courts have no jurisdiction or authority to prohibit the acknowledgment of God that is specifically recognized in the Constitution of Alabama."
To me, Judge Moore seems "activist" enough when his personal beliefs lead him to flaunt the very laws he was sworn to uphold. It definitely calls into question his impartiality.
Micheal:
The constitution and its drafters could not forsee everything, as evidenced by the amendments to cover things like abolition of slavery, speedy trial, self-incrimination, cruel & unusual punishment, removal of race as a factor in voting, and women's suffrage. Each of those things had to be added after the fact to improve the civil rights standing of the U.S.
As for topics like gay marriage and abortion, I personally feel those should be left up to the states themselves since they are not directly covered in the constitution or current set of amendments. (Amendment #10!)
As for the Terri Schiavo situation, it galled me that Congress intervened in a state matter. It seemed doubly irritating that Tom DeLay wanted to intercede on Schiavo's behalf when DeLay himself agreed to withhold kidney dialysis from his own father who had suffered brain damage in a construction accident.
So, Dan, you feel Roe vs Wade should be overturned? That was a state matter. I happen to agree with you.
DeLay's father was on a ventilator, kidney dialysis, had organ failure, and was expected to die shortly. Terri just needed food.
RvW overturned? That particular genie is already out the bottle. If it had come up today I'd be shrieking the state's rights argument on that issue. Color me a closet Federalist. I should have an office pinup of Alexander Hamilton.
As for DeLay's father, he was stricken during the period of Texas' "Natural Death Act" of 1977, which required that physicians perform any and all lifesaving measures unless:
1. Two physicians (one who must be the primary care physician) must agree that the condition is terminal and death would be imminent without lifesaving measures, and...
2. The patient's guardian elects to withold lifesaving measures.
And in that case, they did it, and I do not fault the DeLay family for their decision whatsoever.
Lucky for me, the new Advance Directives Act of 1999 (signed by then-Gov. Bush) allows my wife to pull my plug if the docs concur that my condition is expected to be terminal within six months. While that is not something I look forward to, it gives me peace of mind that I won't be a burden and I'll be allowed to move on with my existence.