Very Similar to Shiavo: How many more will have to endure this>

google search ^ | 03/23/05 | self

[truthseeker2]

Can Steven Becker Part ICan Steven Becker be Neglected to Death? by Nancy Valko and Sandy Caspersen

There are many ways to kill a sick or disabled person. Removing food and water is only one. Since Steven Becker's March operation to relieve pressure on his brain, discussion has revolved around eliminating food and water, provided through a tube into his digestive tract. This medically assisted food and water was correctly called "comfort care" in records at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in suburban st. Louis before the decision was made to end his life. Now the hospital as well as the media calls it "life support."

But hidden from the public, St. John's and its ethics committee have also decreed that other treatment ­ antibiotics, other beneficial medications, physical therapy and a possible operation to correct his now infected brain shunt ­ can also be denied to Steven even though the legal process is still proceeding.

Steven has been deemed by St. John's Mercy to be in a so-called "permanent vegetative state," defined as awake but unaware, although that diagnosis is disputed by at least one other doctor. Ironically, pain medications and muscle relaxants are now considered among the few treatments that may be provided. Why would a supposedly unresponsive person even need pain medication? Why is Steven's family told that information about his current medications is "confidential"?

The truth is that Steven has responded and smiled since his brain surgery, but is now no longer even allowed to sit up in a chair. Although family members and even hospital records have reported this responsiveness, the false picture of a motionless "man in a coma" persists.

Read more: www.chninternational.com/can_steven_becker_be_neglected_pt1.htm

[Smartass]

David Souter

H.W. Bush made numerous judicial blunders.
Yes, he nominated and placed David Souter on
the Supreme Court.

Clearly, Souter disappointingly rules with the
liberal side of the Court. 

[John Lenin]

I read that Bush SR. was gung ho to get abortion passed. I never trusted that guy. A Thousand Points(Govmnt Programs) of Light. A Peggy Noonan classic ...

[shibumi]

Animus Vita Et Christus Rex Mors Non Domitor Est!