Michael Schiavo Lawsuit Would Focus on Terri’s 2003 Hospitalization 
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by Steven Ertelt
LifeNews.com Editor
August 11, 2005
Clearwater, FL (LifeNews.com) — New details are emerging about the angle estranged husband Michael Schiavo is pursuing in a possible medical malpractice lawsuit related to the medical care provided to Terri. Michael is pursuing an August 2003 incident in which Terri was hospitalized with a possible severe infection.
Earlier this week, a new attorney for Michael filed legal papers asking for a 90 day extension of the statute of limitations on filing a medical malpractice case. Mark Perenich, who takes over for euthanasia advocate George Felos, said in the petition that is representing as the attorney for Michael and Terri’s estate.
Michael is pursing a possible case based on an incident occurring around August 14, 2003.
Near that time, Terri was admitted to Morton Plant Hospital on at least two occasions because of numerous medical issues such as a bleeding esophagus, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia.
Terri was transported from Woodside Hospice to the hospital after she coughed up blood, Felos said at the time. Doctors thought she may have had a stomach ulcer, but Terri’s family later indicated she was being treated for a bleeding esophagus.
On August 24, Terri was again admitted to the hospital for a "substantial infection" and lung congestion with possible pneumonia.
At that time, Michael indicated Terri may die without medical treatment and hospital officials told him that she could die even if they treated her. Michael asked Judge George Greed to be able to halt any medical treatment, thereby causing Terri’s possible death.
Felos, however, admitted Terri would likely "turn the corner" if given medical treatment.
If the courts grant Michael’s petition, he and his attorney will be given 90 additional days to look into the matter and file a formal medical malpractice lawsuit. Under Florida law, legal action must be taken within two years of the alleged mistreatment unless an extension is granted.
There is no word on what grounds Michael would claim the malpractice occurred.
While Michael may be file suit based on possible mistreatment, nurses who cared for Terri over the years say he was responsible for mistreating her.
Terri died on March 31 after a painful two week-long starvation and dehydration death following Judge Greer’s decision Michael could end her life.
Related web sites:
Terri Schiavo’s Parent’s Site – https://terrisfight.org
