Baby MB allowed right to life – specialist solicitor Chris Gawne expresses the parent’s delight
15/03/2006
May I thank you for the way my accident claim has been handled, after my accident my confidence was very low indeed but the sympathetic handling of my case restored my confidence.
John, Sheffield
In a Judgement handed down today the Court refuses the withdrawal of life saving ventilation from Baby MB.
"The family and I are delighted that the Judgement today by Justice Holman has given Baby MB the right to continue his life. The judgment given today shows recognition that Baby MB does have quality of life
and that his life is worth living. His parents feel vindicated by the
Judgement, which they feel proves what they have felt to be true all
along," said Chris Gawne of Alexander Harris, solicitor for the family.
"Mr
Justice Holman has assessed Baby MB's best interests, by weighing up
the benefits and pleasures that Baby MB is able to experience from life
against the burdens of regular medical interventions."
"This
has been a particularly unusual case as Baby MB is the only baby in
this situation known to have cognitive skills, and because if taken off
the ventilator, he will die almost immediately. Mr Justice
Holman said during the hearing that to be asked to make a declaration
concerning a child with normal or near normal cognitive abilities was
unprecedented," added Chris.
This
is the first time that a Court has been asked to authorise action which
would have brought about the immediate death of a child with normal or
near normal cognitive abilities.
Baby MB is aware of his
surroundings. Like many children his age he enjoys being read to,
listening to music and watching cartoons on television. He enjoys
playing with his parents and his brother and sister. He is able to show
his likes and his dislikes. His parents feel that the benefits and
pleasures that Baby MB is able to enjoy outweigh the discomforts and
limitations of his life in hospital. It is notable that many of the
nursing staff who are with him every day feel the same way. In giving
Judgment today, the Court has agreed with the assessments as to MB's
quality of life made by those people who know him best.
The
family would like to thank the public for the many messages of support
that they have received during this difficult period.
The family are not available for interviews today and wish to be left alone. The family's solicitor, Chris Gawne is able to answer questions on their behalf. All requests should be directed to Media Officer, Rachel Brown on 07949 497 618
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