I am a nurse who has worked with people who are physically, and profoundly developmentally challenged, for 18 years. From the video clips that I have seen, Terri Schiavo was in much the same condition as the people I work with. Anyone that believes these people are “vegetables” must also believe that I have wasted the past 18 years of my life.

I strongly disagree!

When the body malfunctions, due to brain injury, it does not necessarily mean that the mind is no longer functioning. These people feel pain, both physically and emotionally. They understand most of what is said to them and, with training, can learn to use communication devices to respond.

Do these folks have the same quality of life that you and I have? No.

Do they have a quality of life? Absolutely!

Sadly, Terri was not given the opportunity to learn. All of her therapy services were discontinued by her guardian. It was at that point that Florida should have intervened. The fact that she was alive at all, after all of those years with no therapy services, indicates an incredible will to live.

The Schiavo case reminds us to have living wills that are specific in nature. I interpret “extraordinary measures” to mean mechanical supports, not nourishment.

As a nurse, I cannot imagine letting anyone die of dehydration. Comfort measures should be allowed. That includes keeping the mouth and lips moistened.

I pray Terri’s death was not in vain.

Rosie Bates, New Vineyard