The Facts of the Case:
Lauren struggled with substance abuse but had been clean for ten months. On August 28, 2006, she overdosed on heroin, resulting in damage to her brain due to oxygen deprivation.
Because Lauren’s parents knew that she wanted to give birth to her child, they agreed on medical treatment of Lauren during her pregnancy.
Lauren’s daughter Ember Grace was born in February 2007, and she is a healthy little girl.
After Ember’s birth, Lauren was taken off a ventilator and tracheostomy and much to the surprise of her doctors, she began breathing on her own.
It was at this time that Lauren’s father, Randy Richardson and mother, Edith Towers, disagreed on Lauren’s treatment plan, ultimately leading to cross-petitions for guardianship.
Mr. Richardson wants to continue ordinary care for Lauren like tube feeding, basic medications, and cleanliness, but not extraordinary care.
Master Glasscock issued his final report on January 24, 2008, granting guardianship to Mrs. Edith Towers.
Her Father’s Fight to Save His Daughter:
Lauren’s father, Randy Richardson, is fighting this ruling and has currently filed a Notice of Exceptions, a Motion for Trial and Hearing, and a motion for further medical evaluation of Lauren.
Randy believes that Lauren was hopeful and would not want to be starved and dehydrated.
Randy and a local neurologist believe Lauren is showing signs of consciousness beyond PVS.
Randy has been told that with therapy Lauren may be able to learn to eat without a tube, continue to improve, and recognize visitors, including her daughter.
Randy is asking the Court to award him guardianship of Lauren so that he can take her home, love and care for her as any father would.
If you would like to read the Delaware News Journal articles, concerning our fight to save Lauren's life:
Thursday, January 31 Click here
Sunday, February 3rd Click here
Tuesday, February 5th Click here
Wednesday, February 6th Click here
Christine O'Donnell Faith2Action interview with Janet Folger
