To be honest, the letter from Katie Densley in the Spokesman-Review on Sunday didn’t surprise me at all. That is, the content of the letter didn’t surprise me. The fact that her letter was published did surprise me. I suspect there are more stories like hers in Washington – and even more in Oregon. But … Continue reading Washington State: Grieving Relative Compares Legally Scheduled Suicide to Execution
From USA Today – “When is someone brain dead? Experts revise guidelines“: Determining brain death is a complex process that requires dozens of tests to make sure doctors come to the correct conclusion. With that goal in mind, the American Academy of Neurology has issued new guidelines — an update of guidelines first written 15 … Continue reading New Guidelines for Determining Brain Death – But Will Hospitals Actually Follow Them?
When checking the blog stats this morning, I noticed a huge jump in hits yesterday. It took me a bit to figure out why, since it’s been a few days since I’ve posted anything. It turns out that NBC Dateline broadcast a story on the death of Ruben Navarro and the trial of Dr. Hootan … Continue reading NBC Dateline: “A Matter Of Time” (Ruben Navarro)
Just out today, the Seattle Weekly has an in-depth article exploring the uncertainties surrounding a medical prognosis of having six-months to live and its implications for impending legislation for legalization of assisted suicide in Washington state. From the article: The law has deeply divided doctors, with some loath to help patients end their lives and … Continue reading Seattle Weekly – “Terminal Uncertainty”
Readers of this blog will be familiar with the depressing and alarming story of Ruben Navarro, who died hours after a botched attempt and a “controlled death” and organ harvesting. This occurred under a protocol still not used widely, but on the increase – labeled “donation by cardiac death (DCD).” This appears to be a … Continue reading Jury Acquits Transplant Surgeon in Ruben Navarro Death
