Tom Feeney: “tonight I rise to speak for the life of a fellow citizen, Ms. Terri Schindler-Schiavo. Her story has been heard…”

“tonight I rise to speak for the life of a fellow citizen, Ms. Terri Schindler-Schiavo. Her story has been heard worldwide and I join millions across the world, including our Governor, Jeb Bush, to urge that her feeding tube be replaced and her life spared. According to the web site established on her behalf, Terri was 26 years old when she suffered brain damage from a sudden collapse. She receives her food and water by means of a feeding tube. Terri's other bodily functions are physically stable. Terri smiles, laughs and cries. Terri recognizes voices and responds. At times, she vocalizes sounds, trying in her best way to speak. While these situations are heart-breaking for all of those involved, we need to remember that all life is precious. It is not for us to measure what constitutes 'valuable life v. invaluable.' We never know how one's life may impact others. While Terri's life seems 'a waste' or 'over' to others, she obviously brings delight and happiness to her family and those around her. Her parents and siblings have fought in court to keep Terri alive. Members, the prospect of a society that places price-tags on human life, is terrifying. We must uphold the American precedent that '... All men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life ...' I stand in support of Terri's family, as well as our Governor and State leaders who are trying to preserve this precious life.”