To the editor:

The Associated Press story in the Oct. 11 Journal-World accurately reported that Terri Schiavo’s feeding tube will be removed today so that she may starve to death over the next two weeks. It erroneously reported, however, the common misrepresentation that Terri is “in a persistent vegetative state.” Since the life of this young woman is at stake, it seems to me accurate reporting is a moral obligation.

Terri is conscious, breathing on her own, responding to commands from her doctor, enjoying her favorite music, and receiving the loving ministrations of her family with evident joy. One has only to view videos of her (www.terrisfight.org) to notice that she is anything but a “vegetable.”

I dare anyone who calls themselves pro-life, pro-choice, pro-disabled or pro-compassion to see this young woman and pronounce her life unworthy of protection.

Terri and her family have lost their battle to keep her alive. I hope at least that it will be difficult for you to eat a meal while she is dying a slow and agonizing death from starvation and thirst.

Our response to the most powerless people among us most clearly demonstrates the caliber of our humanity. Terri has no power whatsoever to keep us from killing her. How will you respond?

Charlotte Ostermann,

Lawrence