March 3, 2005
Beatrice Engstrand M.D, Neurology, private practice Huntington New York
Assistant Professor of Neurology New York Medical College
Founder and President of the Neuro-Degenerative Disease Foundation
I trained under Fred Plum M.D. wo originally popularized the term, “vegetative state”.
I base my opinion about her condition on extended experience and knowledge working with patients in similar conditions, including the Central Park jogger case in Manhattan in 1989.
Based on my opinion, and limited knowledge regarding her case, I believe that there is a definite possibility that Mrs. Schiavo is not in a persistent vegetative state because the television show that I watched, she seems to be consciously aware. I think she is minimally conscious at least. She may even be conscious.
Mrs. Schiavo needs to be evaluated in order to determine her level of cognitive functioning. A PET scan or an FMRI (functional MRI), and an EEG would be helpful.
Medical Affidavit
March 3, 2005
Alyse Eytan M.D., Developmental Psychiatrist, Chicago Il, Private Practice
It is a matter of credibility whether Ms. Schiavo wants to live or die. An “off the cuff” remark made to another person is not a “state of mind.” Our selves are in a constant state of change, a process determined by our own genes, environment and life events, as well as the with to change. Because we are all in the process of changing, Mrs. Schiavo is not the same person as she was when she made her alleged remarks about not wanting to live in a certain condition.
Mrs. Schiavo is not on a respirator. She is merely using a feeding tube. She is not suffering, or disfigured by it, nor does she experience physical complications from relying on it. Removing it will lead to her death and terminate all chance of her improving or enjoying any future life. Healthy people aren’t often able to appreciate how severely injured people can cling to life.
One would think this would carry significant weight in getting Terri tested. She needs protective custody in the meantime.