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A Choice for K'aila
May Parents Refuse A Transplant For Their Child?
| Length: | 28 min |
| Released: | 1993 |
| Ages: |
College Adult |
This memorable film asks who should decide on aggressive medical intervention for infants. The parents or society?
Leslie and Francois Paulette, of Native American heritage, were told that their eight-month-old would need a liver transplant to survive. They were deeply disturbed by the possibility of the baby's enduring painful treatment only to face a life of uncertain prospects. In addition, they held the Native American belief that foreign organs from another person should not be transplanted. Their doctor, though sympathetic, was deeply disturbed at the prospect of withholding treatment. He had successfully treated several children, including some Native Americans. The case went to court in Alberta, and the family was permitted to take K'aila home to die.
Leslie and Francois Paulette, of Native American heritage, were told that their eight-month-old would need a liver transplant to survive. They were deeply disturbed by the possibility of the baby's enduring painful treatment only to face a life of uncertain prospects. In addition, they held the Native American belief that foreign organs from another person should not be transplanted. Their doctor, though sympathetic, was deeply disturbed at the prospect of withholding treatment. He had successfully treated several children, including some Native Americans. The case went to court in Alberta, and the family was permitted to take K'aila home to die.
"The day-to-day realities of heroic medical advancements are poignantly brought to light in this memorable production that examines both sides of a delicate, timely topic." - Booklist
Best of Category, International Health & Medical Film Festival, 1992
Blue Ribbon, American Film & Video Festival, 1992
Blue Ribbon, American Film & Video Festival, 1992
