BMJ  2003;327:206-207 (26 July), doi:10.1136/bmj.327.7408.206

Commentary

mother's response

Lynn Boland, supported by Diane Laverty, clinical nurse specialist1

1 Department of Palliative Medicine, Royal Marsden Hospital, London SW3 6JJ diane.lavarty@rmh.nthames.nhs.uk

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

My husband and I had been estranged for about six years when our son became ill. Despite our separation, we always communicated about decisions relating to our son's care.

The night when he began bleeding is etched in my memory. The most poignant thing is my recollection of my son's face. He looked absolutely terrified. After his condition stabilised, we (the family) left the room to discuss the situation with the doctors. They explained that if the procedure was not performed immediately he would not live through the night. My husband and I spoke about it and he was keen for us to proceed, but I pointed out that it needed to be our son's decision. I recall discussing what would happen if they couldn't find a bed anywhere for him. The whole incident felt like torture for all of us.

I don't think I thought about the futility of . . . [Full text of this article]


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Emily Jane Woo
bmj.com, 25 Jul 2003 [Full text]

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