An Update on Amelia
By Tim Shriver Several weeks ago, I wrote about a young girl named Amelia Rivera who was denied consideration for a kidney transplant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia because she was, according to her doctors, “mentally retarded.” Amelia is now in the process of being considered again for a transplant. Our lesson is that we cannot let Amelia’s story be an isolated call to arms. We must continue to seek change and advocate for the dignity of every human life.
Brick Walls
“Oh, that’s ok! We plan on donating. If we aren’t a match, we come from a large family and someone will donate. We don’t want to be on the list. We will find our own donor.” “Noooo. She—is—not—eligible –because—of—her—quality– of –life—Because—of—her—mental—delays” He says each word very slowly as if I am hard of hearing. “STOP IT NOW!” The anger is taking over. Thank God. Why did it take so long to get here? The social worker is writing some things down.
