Family fights to keep 11-month-old alive after judge rules to remove from life support
By: Isaiah Robinson
FORT WORTH, Texas – A Texas judge has ruled that a children’s hospital can remove an 11-month-old girl with a rare heart defect from life support.
The family of Tinslee Lewis is continuing to fight for her to remain in treatment at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas.
According to CNN, Tinslee was born prematurely at the hospital, where she has spent her entire life. Since birth, she has been plagued with medical problems and has undergone three open-heart surgeries.
The infant has been treated for a severe heart defect called Ebstein’s anomaly, hypertension, lung disease and high blood pressure. She was placed on life support in July. The hospital began talks in September with the Lewis family about transferring her to another hospital or ending care. Staff argued that the baby is in pain and that “further medical intervention is not in Tinslee’s best interest.”
Texas Fourth District Court of Appeals Chief Justice Judge Sandee B. Marion issued a ruling Thursday to deny the request for an injunction filed by the family, which would have prevented the hospital from removing Tinslee from life support.
Joe Nixon, the lawyer on behalf of the Lewis family, filed an amended notice of appeal with the trial court shortly after the announcement of the judge’s ruling. The family is fighting to keep her alive.
Texas Right to Life, an anti-abortion group, said it was disappointed in the ruling, stating it, “not only disregarded the Constitution, but also sentenced an innocent 11-month-old baby to death like a criminal.”
Texas Right to Life issued a tweet about the about the news:
The hospital released a statement, which read, in part:
“While the Texas Right to Life group believes this case is about the constitutionality of a statute, we are only focused on what’s best for Tinslee. We ask that outside groups, even those who disagree with Cook Children’s approach, consider what is best for Tinslee now and give the family space to consider what truly is best for this baby, and allow our medical professionals space to care for her.”
The issue also drew the attention of elected officials, including Attorney General Ken Paxton, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. They released a joint statement, calling the situation “complex and heartbreaking.”
“The state will continue to support Ms. Lewis’ exhaustion of all legal options to ensure that Tinslee is given every chance at life,” the statement read, noting the AG’s office will support an appeal. “The State of Texas is fully prepared to continue its support of Ms. Lewis in the Supreme Court if necessary.”
Cook Children’s will not take action for at least seven days.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
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