Death by Dehydration Symptoms Regarded as "Cruel and Violent" in 1986 Brophy Case

Many commentators have included the term 'death with dignity' in describing Terri's impending death. Numerous newspaper editorials and letters to the editor have included references to 'just letting her go.' The medical effects, however, of a death by dehydration might give most of these people pause. Paul Brophy's attending physician described death by dehydration as cruel and violent.