FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- The family of 11-month-old Tinslee Lewis was granted an emergency relief, preventing Cook Children’s Hospital from removing her from life support. This comes after the Texas Appeals Court received a letter from Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in support of baby Tinslee’s fight for her life.
The baby suffers from a rare heart condition and has severe lung problems. She’s been in the hospital since her premature birth and can’t breathe without a ventilator. Doctors say she’s irreversibly ill and more treatment is actually causing her more pain and suffering.
Last week, a judge gave the hospital the green light to remove her from life support, supporting the 10 day rule.
Tinslee’s mother, Trinity believes her baby will pull through. “I never thought I would have to go through something like this,” Lewis said. “I’m not going to say my biggest fear is losing her because I know everyone has to pass away…my fear is them pulling the plug on her without me being able to make the decision for her,” she said.
The family’s attorney Joe Nixon continued, saying they won’t stop until the end. “Not just for Tinslee but for every patient at every Texas hospital,” he said.
“The next thing that is going to happen is that we are going to file a brief informing the court of appeals as to why this statute [10 day rule] is unconstitutional,” said Nixon. “There were 5 amicus briefs filed during the temporary injunction stage and I anticipate there will be many many more.. people from all over the country will weigh in on this issue,” he said.
The family now has more time for the appeals process. Cook Children’s Hospital sent WBAP/KLIF a statement after the emergency brief was issued. The hospital says the family has revoked their decision to allow them to talk about Tinslee’s medical condition.
“The family of Tinslee Lewis has revoked their decision to allow Cook Children’s Medical Center to speak about the health or medical status
of Tinslee Lewis. As with any of our patients, we obtain consent before speaking about a medical condition in accordance with HIPAA laws. With the permission withdrawn, we will respect the Lewis family’s decision. This remains an emotional and difficult situation for everyone involved. Cook Children’s
medical team remains committed to caring for every patient and family we serve.”
