In the article "Pillow Angel Ethics" author Nancy Gibbs discusses the controversial story of a six-year-old girl named Ashley. Ashley was born with a severe brain impairment called "static encephalopathy" as it is a permanent and unchanging condition. Being unable to sit-up, walk, talk, or feed herself, Ashley has been nicknamed "Pillow Angel" by her parents because she always remains where she is placed, on a pillow. Due to this condition, Ashley's parents has become her main caregivers and decided to proceed with lengthy medicinal treatments as well as operations to keep her small and thus, easier to care for. To demonstrate, Ashley has endured "high-dose estrogen treatment...her growth plates were closed and her prospective height reduced by about 13 inches". By doing so her parents are better able to include her in family activities and give her the care and love that she deserves. Additionally, the risk of uterine and breast cancer has been eliminated for Ashley by removing her uterus and breast tissue. These procedures could ultimately "prevent potenial discomfort from menstrual cramps or pregnancy..." Despite this, disibility advocates "have suggested that this course of treatment is an abuse of Ashley's rights'..." However, given the circumstances I do not believe that this is an abuse of Ashley's rights'. Since Ashley is physically and mentally unable to care for herself, as her main caregivers I believe that her parents had the right to decide. It is clear that Ashley's parents love her and want to do what they think is best. In this case, I believe that Ashley's family is more than fit to decide for her, of course, with the assistance of medical professionals. Even though these treatment options may have risks such as "thrombosis or blood clot", I personally believe that with any medical treatments there are always risks that may come with it. This does not mean that one should completely disregard the procedure, it is also important to consider the benefits that come along with it. As of right now the treatments and operations that have been performed on Ashley has only improved the quality of her life and that is all that matters. Overall, I understand the reasons behind Ashley's case and believe that it is justified and ethical.
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