abortion
SURVEY: The Kaiser Family Foundation has released a study of 2,200 women, ages 18 and older, surveyed three to four weeks after their abortions. While Kaiser applauds the results, stating “women who have abortions give care high marks,” the fact is that these women were not asked questions dealing with the loss of a child, and so soon after abortion were clinically still in denial.
The Kaiser Family Foundation has released a study of 2,200 women, ages 18 and older, surveyed three to four weeks after their abortions. While Kaiser applauds the results, stating “women who have abortions give care high marks,” the fact is that these women were not asked questions dealing with the loss of a child, and so soon after abortion were clinically still in denial.
(Reading: “New Nationwide Survey Of Abortion Patients; Women Who Have Abortions Give Care High Marks,” Kaiser Family Foundation: Reproductive Health Report, 5/11/99;”From the Patient’s Perspective: Quality of Abortion Care,” prepared for the Kaiser Family Foundation by the Picker Institute, 5/99)
birth control
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
(Reading: “About One in 10 Women Using Contraceptives Experience an Accidental Pregnancy,” AGI press release, 4/20/99; “Contraceptive Failure Rates: New Estimates From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 4/99, pp. 56-63; “Contraceptive Failure, Method-Related Discontinuation And Resumption Of Use, Results From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 3-4/99, pp. 64-72)
chemical abortion
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
COMMENT: This statement is patently false; it is bogus science. The embryonic child (human embryo) is alive and growing once fertilization occurs, and he continues to grow and plan for his future, part of those plans being his establishment of a home within the wall of his mother’s uterus. When a chemical interferes with those plans and the embryonic child dies, that is abortion.
CONUNDRUM: Why then do representatives of right to life groups state “we have enough work to do without taking on something when there’s still a question of whether there is life there or not.” Huh?
(Reading: “Pharmacists Limit Women’s Access To Emergency Contraception,” ACOG news release, 5/18/99; “Lies And Deceit From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; ALL news release, 5/14/99; “Wal-Mart Rejects Contraceptive Pill,” Associated Press, 5/17/99)
human embryo
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
(Reading: “First Unaffected Pregnancy Using Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis For Sickle Cell Anemia,” Journal of the American Medical Association, 5/12/99, pp. 1701-1706)
imposed death
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
(Reading: 5/5/99 letter from John H. DeTar, M.D. to Bishop Phillip Straling, for documentation call 775-327-2309 or e-mail “>.)
politics
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
COMMENT: For the record, “ban” means prohibit, not regulate, Mr. Bush.
(Reading: “George W. Bush to appear at Texas Right to Life Fundraiser,” press release from Texas Right to Life, 5/12/99; “Top Bush Consultant Registered Web Addresses for Four Possible Bush Tickets,” “>Phil Sheldon; “The Republican Debate on Abortion,” Washington Post, 5/15/99, p. A23)
sterilization
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
(Reading: “Population Guru Calls for Increased Use of Controversial Sterilization Drug,” CFHRI Friday Fax, 5/14/99)
you
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
BIKE/WALK FOR LIFE: Expectant Mother Care of New York City is sponsoring events inviting participants to bike or walk 100 miles for life. The events will support counseling and baby saving centers in Manhattan, the Bronx, Riverdale and soon in Brooklyn. For details call 212-685-3320.
special feature: end-of-life care
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
(Reading: “Patients Want Families To Make End-Of-Life Decisions,” Reuters Health, 5/18/99)
Communiqué asked leading pro-life commentators to review this news report and comment. A sample of those comments follows:
Julie Grimstad, Center for the Rights of the Terminally Ill: “We who have steadfastly opposed ‘living wills’ as unnecessary and counterproductive (and as dangerous tools the pro-death organizations use to advance their agenda) are now vindicated. This study shows that the way things used to be (before ‘living wills’) is the way patients overwhelmingly prefer it. Families always did have the ‘legal authority’ to make medical decisions for their loved ones-that is, until ‘living will’ laws usurped that authority. ‘Living will’ laws actually give doctors the legal authority to completely shut the family out of the decision-making process for a loved one. Not many people realize that. I advise anyone who doesn’t trust some or all of their family members to make the ‘right’ decisions, to carefully choose someone to act as his/her medical decision-maker via a Health Care Power of Attorney document.”
Dianne N. Irving, Ph.D.: “Although not usually discussed, there can sometimes be serious problems with having only family member make any final end-of-life decisions for an incompetent family member-especially if the family member considers the patient a burden (financially and psychologically) and would really like to get rid of him. This is more common than is realized, and is one grave concern that families with elderly, mentally ill or otherwise disabled members sometimes face. This article also does not mention the millions of patients who have no family members alive or around who can make these difficult decisions for them.”
Mark Pickup, disability rights activist and incurably ill: “My view (as a potential recipient of incapacitated care) is that it is critically important that the incurably ill and those with degenerative diseases rest in the assurance that their caregivers are people of Judeo-Christian principles, are people of Faith, governed by a firm commitment to the principle of life’s sanctity. Further, it’s critically important that they value my life even when I have ceased to value my life at some low point. I need to know decisions will be made against a backdrop of Christian love and respect, not the poverty and utility of modern bioethics. It is against such a backdrop that the wisdom can properly be displayed to change from a curative mode at care and comfort. Care and comfort must not include assisted killing.”
reflect
“It is a great art to know how to converse with Jesus, and to know how to keep Jesus is great wisdom. Be humble and peaceful and Jesus will be with thee. Be devout and quiet and Jesus will stay with thee.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis
pray
Lord, teach me to be peacefully in your company more and more each day. Amen.
SURVEY: The Kaiser Family Foundation has released a study of 2,200 women, ages 18 and older, surveyed three to four weeks after their abortions. While Kaiser applauds the results, stating “women who have abortions give care high marks,” the fact is that these women were not asked questions dealing with the loss of a child, and so soon after abortion were clinically still in denial.
The Kaiser Family Foundation has released a study of 2,200 women, ages 18 and older, surveyed three to four weeks after their abortions. While Kaiser applauds the results, stating “women who have abortions give care high marks,” the fact is that these women were not asked questions dealing with the loss of a child, and so soon after abortion were clinically still in denial.
(Reading: “New Nationwide Survey Of Abortion Patients; Women Who Have Abortions Give Care High Marks,” Kaiser Family Foundation: Reproductive Health Report, 5/11/99;”From the Patient’s Perspective: Quality of Abortion Care,” prepared for the Kaiser Family Foundation by the Picker Institute, 5/99)
birth control
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
(Reading: “About One in 10 Women Using Contraceptives Experience an Accidental Pregnancy,” AGI press release, 4/20/99; “Contraceptive Failure Rates: New Estimates From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 4/99, pp. 56-63; “Contraceptive Failure, Method-Related Discontinuation And Resumption Of Use, Results From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 3-4/99, pp. 64-72)
chemical abortion
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
COMMENT: This statement is patently false; it is bogus science. The embryonic child (human embryo) is alive and growing once fertilization occurs, and he continues to grow and plan for his future, part of those plans being his establishment of a home within the wall of his mother’s uterus. When a chemical interferes with those plans and the embryonic child dies, that is abortion.
CONUNDRUM: Why then do representatives of right to life groups state “we have enough work to do without taking on something when there’s still a question of whether there is life there or not.” Huh?
(Reading: “Pharmacists Limit Women’s Access To Emergency Contraception,” ACOG news release, 5/18/99; “Lies And Deceit From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; ALL news release, 5/14/99; “Wal-Mart Rejects Contraceptive Pill,” Associated Press, 5/17/99)
human embryo
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
(Reading: “First Unaffected Pregnancy Using Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis For Sickle Cell Anemia,” Journal of the American Medical Association, 5/12/99, pp. 1701-1706)
imposed death
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
(Reading: 5/5/99 letter from John H. DeTar, M.D. to Bishop Phillip Straling, for documentation call 775-327-2309 or e-mail “>.)
politics
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
COMMENT: For the record, “ban” means prohibit, not regulate, Mr. Bush.
(Reading: “George W. Bush to appear at Texas Right to Life Fundraiser,” press release from Texas Right to Life, 5/12/99; “Top Bush Consultant Registered Web Addresses for Four Possible Bush Tickets,” “>Phil Sheldon; “The Republican Debate on Abortion,” Washington Post, 5/15/99, p. A23)
sterilization
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
(Reading: “Population Guru Calls for Increased Use of Controversial Sterilization Drug,” CFHRI Friday Fax, 5/14/99)
you
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
BIKE/WALK FOR LIFE: Expectant Mother Care of New York City is sponsoring events inviting participants to bike or walk 100 miles for life. The events will support counseling and baby saving centers in Manhattan, the Bronx, Riverdale and soon in Brooklyn. For details call 212-685-3320.
special feature: end-of-life care
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
(Reading: “Patients Want Families To Make End-Of-Life Decisions,” Reuters Health, 5/18/99)
Communiqué asked leading pro-life commentators to review this news report and comment. A sample of those comments follows:
Julie Grimstad, Center for the Rights of the Terminally Ill: “We who have steadfastly opposed ‘living wills’ as unnecessary and counterproductive (and as dangerous tools the pro-death organizations use to advance their agenda) are now vindicated. This study shows that the way things used to be (before ‘living wills’) is the way patients overwhelmingly prefer it. Families always did have the ‘legal authority’ to make medical decisions for their loved ones-that is, until ‘living will’ laws usurped that authority. ‘Living will’ laws actually give doctors the legal authority to completely shut the family out of the decision-making process for a loved one. Not many people realize that. I advise anyone who doesn’t trust some or all of their family members to make the ‘right’ decisions, to carefully choose someone to act as his/her medical decision-maker via a Health Care Power of Attorney document.”
Dianne N. Irving, Ph.D.: “Although not usually discussed, there can sometimes be serious problems with having only family member make any final end-of-life decisions for an incompetent family member-especially if the family member considers the patient a burden (financially and psychologically) and would really like to get rid of him. This is more common than is realized, and is one grave concern that families with elderly, mentally ill or otherwise disabled members sometimes face. This article also does not mention the millions of patients who have no family members alive or around who can make these difficult decisions for them.”
Mark Pickup, disability rights activist and incurably ill: “My view (as a potential recipient of incapacitated care) is that it is critically important that the incurably ill and those with degenerative diseases rest in the assurance that their caregivers are people of Judeo-Christian principles, are people of Faith, governed by a firm commitment to the principle of life’s sanctity. Further, it’s critically important that they value my life even when I have ceased to value my life at some low point. I need to know decisions will be made against a backdrop of Christian love and respect, not the poverty and utility of modern bioethics. It is against such a backdrop that the wisdom can properly be displayed to change from a curative mode at care and comfort. Care and comfort must not include assisted killing.”
reflect
“It is a great art to know how to converse with Jesus, and to know how to keep Jesus is great wisdom. Be humble and peaceful and Jesus will be with thee. Be devout and quiet and Jesus will stay with thee.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis
pray
Lord, teach me to be peacefully in your company more and more each day. Amen.
SURVEY: The Kaiser Family Foundation has released a study of 2,200 women, ages 18 and older, surveyed three to four weeks after their abortions. While Kaiser applauds the results, stating “women who have abortions give care high marks,” the fact is that these women were not asked questions dealing with the loss of a child, and so soon after abortion were clinically still in denial.
(Reading: “New Nationwide Survey Of Abortion Patients; Women Who Have Abortions Give Care High Marks,” Kaiser Family Foundation: Reproductive Health Report, 5/11/99;”From the Patient’s Perspective: Quality of Abortion Care,” prepared for the Kaiser Family Foundation by the Picker Institute, 5/99)
birth control
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
PRACTICES: The Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI) has published two studies indicating that 9-12 percent of women who practice “contraception” become pregnant during the first 12 months of starting use. The AGI labels them “accidental pregnancies.”
(Reading: “About One in 10 Women Using Contraceptives Experience an Accidental Pregnancy,” AGI press release, 4/20/99; “Contraceptive Failure Rates: New Estimates From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 4/99, pp. 56-63; “Contraceptive Failure, Method-Related Discontinuation And Resumption Of Use, Results From The 1995 National Survey Of Family Growth,” Family Planning Perspectives, 3-4/99, pp. 64-72)
chemical abortion
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
PREVEN: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that the chemicals work “by preventing ovulation, fertilization or the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus. It has no effect once pregnancy has occurred, when a fertilized egg has already implanted.”
COMMENT: This statement is patently false; it is bogus science. The embryonic child (human embryo) is alive and growing once fertilization occurs, and he continues to grow and plan for his future, part of those plans being his establishment of a home within the wall of his mother’s uterus. When a chemical interferes with those plans and the embryonic child dies, that is abortion.
CONUNDRUM: Why then do representatives of right to life groups state “we have enough work to do without taking on something when there’s still a question of whether there is life there or not.” Huh?
(Reading: “Pharmacists Limit Women’s Access To Emergency Contraception,” ACOG news release, 5/18/99; “Lies And Deceit From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; ALL news release, 5/14/99; “Wal-Mart Rejects Contraceptive Pill,” Associated Press, 5/17/99)
human embryo
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Researchers report that by performing a biopsy on human embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization and analyzing the embryonic baby’s DNA, they can identify those babies susceptible to sickle cell anemia and implant only those who will be healthy.
(Reading: “First Unaffected Pregnancy Using Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis For Sickle Cell Anemia,” Journal of the American Medical Association, 5/12/99, pp. 1701-1706)
imposed death
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
NEVADA: Urologist John DeTar writes, in a letter to Bishop Phillip Straling, “In the three years since the attorney general began her campaign, the RWJF [Robert Wood Johnson Foundation] has advanced in the take over of the control of the care of patients in Nevada. From the onset of a sickness requiring a doctor, to the licensing of that doctor, to his membership in the state medical association, to the hospital where the patient receives care, to the hospice where he may receive terminal care the patient will be at risk if he is under any care of a doctor or nurse, or nursing aide, or hospice manager who has been subject to the influence of the RWJF, the Sanford Center for Aging, or the Nevada center for Ethics and Health Policy.”
(Reading: 5/5/99 letter from John H. DeTar, M.D. to Bishop Phillip Straling, for documentation call 775-327-2309 or e-mail “>.)
politics
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
GEORGE W. BUSH: A 5/12/99 press release from Texas Right to Life affirms that Bush supports “a constitutional ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.” Further, Phil Sheldon’s political e-mail update notes that a Bush consultant has registered four different web addresses for possible running mates for Bush, including Christie Todd Whitman, Governor George Pataki and Governor Thomas Ridge, three pro-abortion Republicans. Finally, Nat Hentoff writes that “realistic politicians” like Bush evade and avoid the bedrock principle of life itself.
COMMENT: For the record, “ban” means prohibit, not regulate, Mr. Bush.
(Reading: “George W. Bush to appear at Texas Right to Life Fundraiser,” press release from Texas Right to Life, 5/12/99; “Top Bush Consultant Registered Web Addresses for Four Possible Bush Tickets,” “>Phil Sheldon; “The Republican Debate on Abortion,” Washington Post, 5/15/99, p. A23)
sterilization
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
QUINACRINE: Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute (CFHRI) reports that the use of quinacrine pellets to sterilize women who live in developing nations has spread because of two U.S. researchers funded by anti-immigration and population control groups, including the conservative foundation run by Richard Mellon Scaife, and from UN benefactor Ted Turner. “Independent laboratory studies show long-term side effects could include cancer” reports CFHRI.
(Reading: “Population Guru Calls for Increased Use of Controversial Sterilization Drug,” CFHRI Friday Fax, 5/14/99)
you
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY: The Consortium of State Physicians Resource Council has published “The Declines in Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion Rates in the 1990s: What Factors Are Responsible?” The well-documented paper is available from the New Jersey Physician’s Resource Council, P. O. Box 131, Fanwood, NJ 07023; call 877-236-5772; fax 908-322-4293
BIKE/WALK FOR LIFE: Expectant Mother Care of New York City is sponsoring events inviting participants to bike or walk 100 miles for life. The events will support counseling and baby saving centers in Manhattan, the Bronx, Riverdale and soon in Brooklyn. For details call 212-685-3320.
special feature: end-of-life care
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
PATIENTS WANT FAMILIES INVOLVED: Reuters reports that most patients would turn to family members rather than physicians when it comes to making decisions regarding end-of-life care. This finding comes from a study of 400 seriously ill hemodialysis patients by Dr. Alvin Moss and a team of investigators at West Virginia University.
(Reading: “Patients Want Families To Make End-Of-Life Decisions,” Reuters Health, 5/18/99)
Communiqué asked leading pro-life commentators to review this news report and comment. A sample of those comments follows:
Julie Grimstad, Center for the Rights of the Terminally Ill: “We who have steadfastly opposed ‘living wills’ as unnecessary and counterproductive (and as dangerous tools the pro-death organizations use to advance their agenda) are now vindicated. This study shows that the way things used to be (before ‘living wills’) is the way patients overwhelmingly prefer it. Families always did have the ‘legal authority’ to make medical decisions for their loved ones-that is, until ‘living will’ laws usurped that authority. ‘Living will’ laws actually give doctors the legal authority to completely shut the family out of the decision-making process for a loved one. Not many people realize that. I advise anyone who doesn’t trust some or all of their family members to make the ‘right’ decisions, to carefully choose someone to act as his/her medical decision-maker via a Health Care Power of Attorney document.”
Dianne N. Irving, Ph.D.: “Although not usually discussed, there can sometimes be serious problems with having only family member make any final end-of-life decisions for an incompetent family member-especially if the family member considers the patient a burden (financially and psychologically) and would really like to get rid of him. This is more common than is realized, and is one grave concern that families with elderly, mentally ill or otherwise disabled members sometimes face. This article also does not mention the millions of patients who have no family members alive or around who can make these difficult decisions for them.”
Mark Pickup, disability rights activist and incurably ill: “My view (as a potential recipient of incapacitated care) is that it is critically important that the incurably ill and those with degenerative diseases rest in the assurance that their caregivers are people of Judeo-Christian principles, are people of Faith, governed by a firm commitment to the principle of life’s sanctity. Further, it’s critically important that they value my life even when I have ceased to value my life at some low point. I need to know decisions will be made against a backdrop of Christian love and respect, not the poverty and utility of modern bioethics. It is against such a backdrop that the wisdom can properly be displayed to change from a curative mode at care and comfort. Care and comfort must not include assisted killing.”
reflect
“It is a great art to know how to converse with Jesus, and to know how to keep Jesus is great wisdom. Be humble and peaceful and Jesus will be with thee. Be devout and quiet and Jesus will stay with thee.”
-Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis
pray
Lord, teach me to be peacefully in your company more and more each day. Amen.