Jayne Halliburton turned 18 one month ago, just prior to her most recent hospitalization. She has been in and out of Shady Grove Hospital for most of her adolescence because of a uterus problem that causes considerable bleeding. Jayne is a member of the Christian Science faith. Christian Scientists reject the view that diseases are ‘real' and they turn to prayer in order to remedy errors of thought and belief that lead to the appearance of ‘disease.' The doctors in the hospital know Jayne well because of her prior hospitalizations, and at this point again they believe that she requires surgery.
Jayne's mother has objected to the treatment her daughter has received in the past. But the hospital petitioned the court to transfuse Jayne against her will. The courts have always agreed that physicians may carry out life-saving treatment on a minor.
As a matter of law, however, Jayne is now an adult. When approached about a transfusion this time, she says that she does not want to go against her religion. Her mother, who is almost always in the hospital room with Jayne, agrees. They both understand that Jayne might die if she does not receive treatment, but the mother insists that it would be better to die than to violate Scripture.
One morning, a physician talks to Jayne while her mother is out of the room. He asks Jayne if it's really her desire to decline treatment. In her answer, Jayne seems a little hesitant and says maybe she could accept it. The doctor says he will check with her a little later. When he does, Jayne's mother is present again, and Jayne says that she does not want treatment, "no matter what." Her mother nods in agreement.