The Center and Terri Schiavo
The Terri Schiavo story made headlines for weeks in 2005. Not since the case of Nancy Cruzan has the country, and the world for that matter, been so galvanized about the story of a single individual at the end of life.
The trauma forced all of us to focus on a host of uncomfortable questions - how should we make our wishes known for the end of life? How can we ensure that those wishes are honored? And who should speak for us when we can no longer speak for ourselves?
At the very least, the tragic story of Terri Schiavo reminded us once again that we are all mortal beings. That fact alone should prompt all of us to fill out an advance directive and designate someone to speak on our behalf.
For many of us, it is the best we can do to honor the memory of Terri Schiavo.
Center statements and policy brief on the Terri Schiavo case
Terri Schiavo -- A Year Later
March 31, 2006
A year has passed since the death of Terri Schiavo, and we still find ourselves wrestling with the same uncomfortable questions the Schiavo case forced upon us - how should we make our wishes known for the end of life? How can we ensure that those wishes are honored? And who should speak for us when we can no longer speak for ourselves? Click here for a Center statement on the one year anniversary of Terri Schiavo's death. Click here for information on Caring Conversations, a booklet that helps families make practical preparations for end-of-life decisions.
Terri Schiavo -- Lessons Learned
March 23, 2005
The Terri Schiavo story is truly tragic. The heartbreaking circumstances surrounding this story indicate that we still have much to do to improve care for the seriously ill and dying in this country.
Terri Schiavo -- The Legislative Aftermath
March 29, 2005
The Terri Schiavo case is prompting a review of longstanding law and policy concerning end-of-life decision-making. Long accepted policies regarding withholding and withdrawing life sustaining treatments may be challenged
Examining New Knowledge and Controversies about Serious Disorders of Consciousness
October 2004
This policy brief offers an overview of the Schiavo case in light of accepted legal and medical standards. It also presents scientific information about a new diagnosis called the “minimally conscious state.”
News media featuring quotes and comments from Center staff
Is a living will enough?
AARP Bulletin
May 2005
A health care power of attorney gives a person you select the legal right to make decisions for you if you no longer can.
Rules to Live and Die By
Newsweek
April 4, 2005
Most states recommend that patients designate a primary proxy as well as an alternate. The decision can be difficult.
In Schiavo tragedy, we find a hard lesson
Kansas City Star
April 1, 2005
Case Spurs Interest in End of Life
Billings Gazette
March 27, 2005
A Living Will Clarifies Your Wishes
USA Today
March 24, 2005
Feeding Tubes Often a Tough Call for Families
Tampa Bay Tribune
March 24, 2005
5 minutes that can spare a family years of pain
USA Today
March 7, 2005
