Pillow Angel Ethics, Essay Example

Overview

This is a story of a rare condition, static encephalopathy, which is a disease that leaves the victim with cognitive capacity of an infant and unable to move. The parents of the victim chose to administer hormonal treatment to make the girl’s growth stunt claiming they did it for quality-of –life and medical reasons.

Allison Brady’s Case

Issues raised by the parents

The parents of Alison have a worry of their child inability to move and the increased growth. Increase in height and weight of their child becomes a bother since the child is bedridden and on a full time watch by either parent in turns. The parent’s most crucial concern is about the safety of the treatment method (Gibbs & John, 2007). They want assurance that their daughter will not suffer from any medical harm. The case of Ashley went as far as performing surgical operations to remove the uterus. This happened to avoid any pregnancy or discomfort from menstruation. Allison’s parents would want an assurance that no treatments would cause harm to their daughter. The parents would like to know the outcome if their decision got into the public. They fear criticism and blame for their decision from the public.

Issues raised on behalf of Allison

The public would suggest a different treatment approach. For example, instead of using estrogen hormones, calories intake reduction would result in reduced height and weight. It is also possible for Allison to grow large and still receive care, but at present, the society does not offer care for children like Allison. There are some other kinds of treatment instead of the one suggested by Allison’s parents. These include surgical procedures such as tonsillectomy, spinal fusion, gastrostomy replacement and tracheotomy. Still the society would argue that Allison is a human being like any other person and so she has rights to enjoy (Gibbs & John, 2007). The decision to subject her to such a treatment robs her of the rights she deserves. Some would also support the treatment with the view that the treatment will enhance the care and life quality for Allison.

References

Gibbs, N., & Lee-St. John, J. (2007). Pillow Angel Ethics. Time, 169(4), 56-57.