What Does the Case of Terri Schiavo Reveal About Our Culture?
Bobby Schindler, the brother of Terri Schiavo, became known to the world during the early 2000s, when his sister's case brought global attention to St. Petersburg, Florida. Terri had suffered a neurological event resulting in brain damage but remained stable with the help of a feeding tube. Her husband wanted to remove all life-sustaining measures, while her parents wished to continue her care and take her home. However, the courts sided with the husband, and Terri died 13 days later after being deprived of food and water. The Catholic Church maintains that basic sustenance, such as food and water, is not a heroic measure, and should always be provided to patients.
Bioethics and Aid for the Most Vulnerable
Bobby founded a non-profit organization to support families in similar situations and to answer questions about end-of-life issues. He acknowledges that each case is unique and aims to guide families who contact him. He believes that disabled people are particularly vulnerable to situations like Terri's and that society has lost its appreciation for the value of life and the gifts that individuals bring. We live in a world where some doctors declare Down Syndrome cured, when in reality, many Down Syndrome babies are being aborted and are simply not given a chance to live. Bobby believes that one consequence of widespread abortions is the continued disregard for human life and increased violence in society.
Comprehensive Resources for a Confused World
Bobby's website, LifeAndHope.com, is a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking information on end-of-life issues. He is the president of the Terri Schiavo Life and Hope Network, a Senior Fellow at Americans United for Life, and an Associate Scholar at the Charlotte Lozier Institute. Bobby is available for speaking engagements through LifeAndHope.com or Ambassadors or Catholic Speakers Organization.
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