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 This means that treatment can now be legally withdrawn.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
Blue plaque unveiled at Agatha Christie's childhood church
Blue plaque unveiled at Agatha Christie's childhood church

As far as we know, the church is not famous for a disproportionate number of mystery murders taking place nearby.

Humanist weddings may outnumber Protestant ones in Northern Ireland
Humanist weddings may outnumber Protestant ones in Northern Ireland

Catholic and civil weddings remain the most popular but humanist ceremonies are becoming increasingly common.

Climate protests held at cathedrals across England
Climate protests held at cathedrals across England

A series of protests took place during the weekend at several Church of England cathedrals and abbeys, where members of the group, Christian Climate Action, called on the church to take a stronger stance on climate change.

The good news about repentance
The good news about repentance

It's such a loaded word but, when properly understood, it's the pathway to joy.