The threat of imposed death is a growing concern. Since Terri Schiavo’s death, we have helped many families navigate life-and-death healthcare decisions. Out of respect for their privacy, we share here just a few of their inspiring stories of hope and unconditional love.
Josh's Story
"They kept in constant contact with us throughout our ordeal."
Our son suffered a brain injury nearly three years ago. The hospital treating him didn’t seem to care if he survived. We were desperate to find a voice for him as his health slipped through the cracks. The Terri Schiavo Foundation was there for us from our first phone call - providing resources and guidance on how to advocate for our son. Suzanne Vitadamo even visited in person and introduced herself to the hospital staff. They stayed in constant contact throughout our ordeal. Josh is now home and doing well - and the Foundation continues to support us today. We are so thankful. — Sylvia, Josh’s mother
Phillip’s Story
"There isn’t enough thanks to give in the entire world."
My brother is in a coma at Riverside Hospital. The hospital wanted to remove life support. Thanks to Suzanne’s referral, we connected with the Ohio Legal Rights Service, who immediately stepped in and met with the hospital’s Ethics Committee. They agreed to honor our family’s wishes. There isn’t enough thanks to give in the entire world. We are so grateful for your help in protecting my brother’s life. — Karen, sister of Phillip
Brendan’s Story
"I am so glad I was able to experience life after the accident."
After a car accident, I was in a coma for three months and not expected to live. A surgeon wanted to euthanize me, saying I’d never recover. I used to think I wouldn’t want to live like that - but the accident changed everything. Today, I’m grateful to be alive and thriving. I see life so differently now. That’s why Terri’s Foundation is so important. They help lighten the burden for families in crisis - just as they did for me. — Brendan Flynn, TBI Survivor
Advocacy Across the Miles
"I will be grateful always."
During the recent illness of a family member living far away, I sought help from the Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation to find legal resources to protect my loved one’s patient rights in an unfamiliar region. Bobby Schindler spent long phone conversations with me - offering excellent legal referrals, wise advocacy strategies, and great kindness through his listening, understanding, and encouragement. I will always be grateful. — From an appreciative family member
Scott’s Story
"Bringing hope and help to others."
We are grateful to the Schindlers for their support and for bringing Scott’s story to light. We pray that they continue their work - bringing hope and help to others. — Pamela, Scott’s mother
Janet’s Story
"There is something miraculous in the way that Janet was snatched from death’s door!"
Were it not for Bobby Schindler and the Terri’s Foundation, my cousin Janet Rivera would most likely not be alive today. Through the Foundation, I connected with an excellent lawyer who helped stop the County of Fresno from carrying out Janet’s euthanasia. I first spoke with Bobby on the morning of July 21st - Janet had been without hydration for nearly seven days. By that afternoon, I was in touch with the lawyer, who persuaded the County the next day to resume her hydration and nutrition, and begin transferring conservatorship to me. There is something miraculous in the way Janet was snatched from death’s door! Many people played a part, but Terri’s Foundation made it happen. Bobby’s continued care and advice throughout this process have been invaluable. Thank you, Bobby. Thank you, Terri. — Susan, Janet’s cousin and newly appointed guardian
Jesse’s Story
"We honestly feel your Foundation is the reason our brother is alive!"
We continue to pray for your family and so many others. Your family planted the seed for us to fight for our loved one, Jesse Ramirez Jr. We honestly feel your Foundation is the reason our brother is alive! Thank you so much, and God bless. — Family of Jesse Ramirez
A Voice for the Defenseless
"I thank God for their wonderful work."
The Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation is a beacon of hope for people everywhere who strive to protect innocent human lives from those who do not value all life as a gift from God. The Foundation is one of the few voices standing up for the abandoned and most helpless among us. I thank God for their wonderful work. — Dr. Doody, Ohio Physician
A Daughter’s Fight
"I thank God for this wonderful Foundation."
In 2005, I followed the heartbreaking case of Terri Schindler Schiavo — never imagining I’d soon need the Foundation’s help. As my mother’s caregiver, I called an ambulance when she seemed dehydrated. I was shocked to see her quickly over-medicated despite my protests. Doctors and nurses ignored me. Desperate, I contacted a radio station, who connected me with Suzanne Vitadamo. Suzanne became my advocate with the hospital, and suddenly I was heard. I thank God, Jesus, and the Blessed Mother for this wonderful Foundation. Suzanne continued to offer care and compassion. This Foundation is truly needed. — Grateful family member
A Survivor’s Voice
"We should applaud Terri’s family for defending the sacredness of life."
Like Terri, I know the horror of starvation. My feeding tube was turned off for eight days after doctors gave me no hope of recovery. We should applaud Terri’s family for continuing to defend the sacredness of life after Terri’s death. — Kate Adamson, stroke survivor and international advocate
A Lifeline from Afar
"The Schindlers tirelessly fight to preserve life, and we are so fortunate to have them."
After meeting Bobby Schindler, I turned to him for support when my mother, states away in Florida, faced an emergency and received improper care that could have been life-threatening. Bobby immediately and repeatedly returned my calls, locating me wherever he could until he connected. His support and contacts helped calm me and guided me on how to advocate for my mother. We need all that the Schindlers do to improve this system and honor Terri’s legacy. They make sure no one feels alone or forgotten - fighting tirelessly for every life. I thank them from the bottom of my heart. — Grateful family member
A Mother’s Gratitude
"Mary Schindler and the Foundation have been our only ray of hope."
My son suffered a traumatic brain injury four years ago at 17½. Since then, he’s fought for his right to live at home with his family and receive proper care. The medical, legal, and insurance systems have been overwhelming, but Mary Schindler and Terri’s Foundation have been our only source of hope and help. I’ve reached out to many organizations, but only Terri’s Foundation has stood with us. Mary’s support has kept me from being alone in this fight. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for walking with us and encouraging us to keep fighting. — Siiri, mother of Pat