Indi Gregory's family lose bid to continue treatment

 (Photo: Christian Legal Centre)

The European Court of Human Rights has refused to consider the case of 8-month-old Indi Gregory, whose doctors want to discontinue life-sustaining treatment.

A last ditch application to prohibit ending the treatment was submitted to the court on Thursday.

The application was made after the UK Court of Appeal earlier this week sided with doctors in deeming that it is in the baby girl's "best interests" to die. 

Indi suffers from a rare mitochondrial disease. Her parents believe that life-sustaining treatment should continue because she is a happy baby who responds to their touch. 

Her doctors at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham believe the treatment should end. 

In its response to the application, the ECHR declared it "inadmissible". The decision is final and cannot be appealed. This means that treatment can now be legally withdrawn. 

Indi's father, Dean Gregory said: "As a father and parent, I was willing to do everything I could to save my daughter's life from inhumane decisions and people trying to play god.

"I'm heartbroken by the decision but I am no longer surprised. I believe it comes down to costs and resources and in the eyes of the NHS and the courts in this country and Europe, Indi is not worth it.

"To us she is everything and we will do everything we can to help until the end as it is our duty as parents to protect her."

Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, which has supported the family, said: "Indi's family have given their all to contend for her life as has the Christian Legal Centre. It is disturbing and sad that they have had to go through such trauma. We stand with them."

News
Reflections on turning 75
Reflections on turning 75

Jewish academic and Hebrew scholar Irene Lancaster shares her reflections and wisdom of the years as she turns 75.

Which type of tree did Zacchaeus actually climb?
Which type of tree did Zacchaeus actually climb?

20 April is the feast day of Zacchaeus of Jericho. We all know the account of Zacchaeus climbing a tree to see Jesus. However, it turns out not to have been a sycamore tree at all. This is the story …

Global Church leaders urge renewed focus on cities as key to spreading the Gospel
Global Church leaders urge renewed focus on cities as key to spreading the Gospel

The Lausanne Movement is urging Christians around the world to see cities as one of the most important frontiers for mission, as rapid urbanisation continues to reshape where and how people live.

Pro-lifers show Parliament harsh reality of abortion up to birth
Pro-lifers show Parliament harsh reality of abortion up to birth

Under the changes, a woman who terminates her pregnancy by herself after the 24-week limit will not face any legal sanctions.