In
1990, 27–year–old Theresa Marie "Terri" Schiavo suffered
cardiopulmonary arrest in her home leading to a persistent vegetative state
requiring artificial nutrition and hydration by feeding tube. After eight years
without neurologic recovery, her husband and guardian requested that her
feeding tube be removed, but her parents objected and the case went to court.
The judge determined that there was "clear and convincing evidence"
that she would not have wanted to be kept alive in this state. Despite several attempts on the part of
Schiavo’s parents’ to prevent removal of her feeding tube, including claims
that she could recover, the Florida state Supreme Court affirmed that her
husband could exercise his right and discontinue treatments. The US
Supreme Court stood by the lower court’s decision and refused to hear the case.
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