In my torts course, I compare often the approaches and doctrines of the United States with those of the United Kingdom. In my torts class, I often compare the different approaches and doctrines in the United States and the United Kingdom. This week, a striking example was presented. British doctors want to remove a critically ill 19-year old female patient from intensive care, despite the objections of both her and her parents. Unlike most such cases, the woman known only as “ST” is conscious and communicative. Doctors claim that ST isn’t being realistic in her assessment of her chances for survival due to a rare disease. A British court has now agreed, and she can be forced to receive end-of-life treatment against her will.
ST is suffering from a rare genetic mitochondrial disease that is progressively degenerative. It is similar to Charlie Gard’s case, where doctors removed the infant from life support despite parental objections. The Gards wanted to send Charlie to America for an experimental treatment.
ST was in the ICU last year and required a ventilator. She also needed a feeding tube. She also needs regular dialysis as a result of chronic kidney disease…
