THE TERRI SCHIAVO CASE continues to take dramatic twists and turns. Even as Michael Schiavo attempts to have Terri’s Law declared unconstitutional, pursuant to the law’s requirements, a judge has appointed a guardian ad litem–Professor Jay Wolfson, of the College of Public Health at the University of South Florida in Tampa–to represent Terri’s interests. There has been some confusion as to whether Wolfson replaces Terri’s quasi-estranged husband Michael Schiavo as guardian of Terri’s person. (I use the term “quasi-estranged” because Schiavo effectively shattered the sanctity their marriage years ago by entering a committed relationship with another woman and starting a family with her.) He does not. Wolfson’s sole responsibilities are to determine whether Terri should be allowed a swallow test, whether she should be provided rehabilitation, and to write a report with his recommendations about these matters–all within 30 days. In the meantime, Schiavo remains fully in control over Terri’ life and care (or the lack thereof)–with the exception that he cannot, for now, remove her tube-supplied food and water.
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