The family of Jahi McMath continue to keep vigil over the 13-year-old, who was declared brain-dead by several doctors in late 2013 and earlier this year. Reportedly, Jahi was transferred to a facility in New York called New Beginnings Community Center. In late March, Jahi’s mother, Nailah Winkfield stated her daughter was moving more in bed, including moving her head side to side, and bending at the waist. For months, the family has faced controversial external opinions regarding the medical diagnosis given by doctors. In a most recent update, Jahi will graduate the 8th grade.
The family wanted Jahi’s school, the EC Reems Academy of Technology and Arts to acknowledge Jahi had completed most of the work, and was unable to attend her graduation, due to her health status.
The family refuses to give hope on Jahi, and she has remained on a ventilator since mid-December. The school approved the graduation award, stating they would issue a “honorary 8th grade diploma for Jahi” to her family.
The case of Jahi rings similar to stories like Terri Schiavo. Terri was in a coma for 15 years, and her husband sought legal approval to terminate life support after doctors stated Terri remained in a persistent vegetative state. Terri’s parents fought fiercely against the courts, and even former President George W. Bush, signed legislation to help the family. On March 18 in 2005, Terri’s feeding tube was removed, after motions and petitions were struck down by the Supreme Court. On March 31, 2005 Terri Schivao died.
Earlier this year, Jahi’s family were invited as guests of honor at the Terri’s Award Gala, and Glenn Beck spoke on behalf of the foundation.
Another very recent case brings Jahi’s case from the shadows. There is radio icon, Casey Kasem who is currently in process of having his feeding tubes removed. Kasem’s wife of 34-years has fought her daughter, Kerri Kasem on removing the tubes. The courts sided with the eldest daughter, as medical doctors stated resuming hydration may “drown” Casey.
These cases bring a harsh light to how the grief of losing a loved one can split apart families, and public opinion. Much too often, people offer an idea or suggestion, but little know the ultimate heartbreak and indecision faced.
Jahi remains under her mother’s care, even as medical doctors pronounced her officially brain dead. There are stories of rare success, that are more exception than the rule. In the case of Jahi, and even Casey, the opinions may be many, but one can imagine pain to the degree the families are facing are something no one could understand. We keep all affected by these situations in our thoughts.