OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY – VALENZUELA

CASE STUDY #3

Hannah Cloma Nacario

2-Y1-23

Who should make the decision from the

question of what the decision should be?
- In this situation making a decision is
the hardest part because it matters about
the life and death of an innocent
human being. In my point of view, it is
really difficult to choose who should
decide in these very tough
circumstances but when we will dig into
the condition, those innocent children
belong to their parents and they
have responsibility what is the best for
their children because they are the one
who appointed to their growth as
well as their welfare. While the doctors
have right to say in their decision in the
fact of the view that one of
doctors goal or purpose is to give the
best among the best health-related
welfare to a certain patient and they
have knowledge and skills about this
matter. I understand each other points of
view and thoughts because both
parties are aims is to get what is best for
the babies, but the decision in this
situation should always be to the
parents of the twins because they are the
guardian and that twins are their
children as well as the parents
always think about what is the best for
their children they want to give the best
life to their twins and they want
to show to them the beauty in this world
even in such a short period, they want to
cherish every moment with
their twins and they have strong faith
that along the way the Lord will send
miracle and the Lord will work
mysteriously. Their trust in the Lord is a
big word that everything that happens is
according to his plans and will,
they will accept whatever happens.
Who should make the decision from the
question of what the decision should be?
- In this situation making a decision is
the hardest part because it matters about
the life and death of an innocent
human being. In my point of view, it is
really difficult to choose who should
decide in these very tough
circumstances but when we will dig into
the condition, those innocent children
belong to their parents and they
have responsibility what is the best for
their children because they are the one
who appointed to their growth as
well as their welfare. While the doctors
have right to say in their decision in the
fact of the view that one of
doctors goal or purpose is to give the
best among the best health-related
welfare to a certain patient and they
have knowledge and skills about this
matter. I understand each other points of
view and thoughts because both
parties are aims is to get what is best for
the babies, but the decision in this
situation should always be to the
parents of the twins because they are the
guardian and that twins are their
children as well as the parents
always think about what is the best for
their children they want to give the best
life to their twins and they want
to show to them the beauty in this world
even in such a short period, they want to
cherish every moment with
their twins and they have strong faith
that along the way the Lord will send
miracle and the Lord will work
mysteriously. Their trust in the Lord is a
big word that everything that happens is
according to his plans and will,
they will accept whatever happens.
Step 1 (Gather the information):

Maria received a liver cancer diagnosis while she was four months pregnant with her first child. Maria and her husband had been
attempting to conceive for an extended period. Unexpectedly, Maria had to undergo chemotherapy to reduce the risk of cancer cell
growth in her body. The doctor informed them that undergoing chemotherapy could expose the baby to high levels of radiation,
potentially leading to harm or even the baby's demise. Choosing to wait until Maria's due date was considered a risky decision that
could endanger both Maria and the baby.

Step 2 (Identify the ethical dilemmas):

The ethical dilemma in this situation revolves around Maria and her husband having to make a difficult decision. On one hand, they
must weigh the option of sacrificing their first baby to allow Maria to undergo chemotherapy, which could potentially save her life but
poses risks to the baby. On the other hand, they could choose to wait until the due date for the baby's delivery, but this carries
uncertainties about both Maria's and the baby's survival. These choices come with complex consequences, considering we are
essentially trading one life for another. Additionally, the safety of childbirth while Maria is ill is uncertain. Moreover, the chances of
successful healing through chemotherapy are low, making this decision even more challenging.

Step 3 (what ethical principles have bearing case):

In the narrative, the doctor recommended aborting the baby so that Maria could receive chemotherapy, indicating a medical and legal
perspective that supports abortion in certain circumstances. It is essential to recognize that the acceptability of abortion varies
depending on cultural, religious, and legal contexts.

1.Medical Ethics: From a medical standpoint, the principle of preserving the life and well-being of the mother may support the
recommendation for abortion in cases where continuing the pregnancy poses a severe threat to her health.

2.Religious Beliefs: Different religions have varying views on abortion. Some consider it a sin under any circumstances, while others
permit it in situations where it is necessary to protect the mother's life.

3.Legal Framework: Abortion laws vary from country to country. For example, Japan allows abortion in limited circumstances, such
as when the mother's health is in danger, cases of incest, or rape.

4.Cultural Values: Cultural perspectives also play a significant role. In some cultures, the belief is that if you choose to have a child,
you must accept the responsibility that comes with it, possibly discouraging abortion.

The ethical dilemma here lies in the clash of these principles and beliefs, making it a complex decision for Maria and her husband.
They must navigate the medical, legal, religious, and cultural factors to make a choice that aligns with their values and circumstances.

Step 4 (Generate Alternatives):

Here are several alternatives that could help Maria and her husband decide in this challenging situation:

Considering Principles:

1.Leave Their Religion: While religion opposes abortion, they could choose to temporarily set aside their religious beliefs in favor of
Maria's health. This would allow them to opt for abortion if it's medically necessary.

2.Migrate to a Country with Different Abortion Laws: If possible, they could consider relocating to a country where abortion laws are
more permissive, enabling them to make a choice that aligns better with their medical needs and values.

3.Seek Advice from Family: Sharing their dilemma with close family members could provide them with valuable insights and
alternative perspectives that may help them decide.

Personal Alternatives:

1.Wait for the Due Date: While it's a challenging option, they could choose to wait until the due date for the baby's delivery,
prioritizing the baby's safety and hoping for the best outcome.

2.Undergo Chemotherapy While Pregnant: This option involves taking the risk of potential harm to the baby but may be necessary to
save Maria's life. They could decide to proceed with chemotherapy and closely monitor the baby's health during the process.
Step 5 (Compare the alternatives with the principles)

Prioritizing the health and well-being of the mother is a valid and compassionate approach, and it aligns with medical ethics that often
prioritize saving the life of the pregnant woman when complications arise. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the decision is
ultimately a deeply personal one for Maria and her husband. They should carefully weigh the pros and cons of each alternative while
taking into account their own values, beliefs, and unique circumstances. While the alternatives may seem to emphasize the mother's
life and health, they also come with their own ethical and emotional complexities, particularly when considering the potential impact
on the baby. It's crucial for them to seek guidance from healthcare professionals, consider their support network, and make a decision
that they believe is in the best interest of both the mother and the baby, taking into account all relevant factors.

Step 6 ( Weigh the consequences)

We can weigh the consequences of the situation by considering both the potential positive and negative outcomes associated with the
alternatives and ethical principles discussed:

Considering the Alternatives:

1. Leaving Their Religion and Opting for Abortion:

- Positive: Maria's health may improve significantly, increasing her chances of survival.
- Negative: It may conflict with their religious beliefs and cause emotional distress.

2. Migrating to a Country with Different Abortion Laws:

- Positive: They may have access to more flexible medical options.
- Negative: Moving to another country is a significant life change and may not be feasible.

3. Seeking Advice from Family:

- Positive: They may gain valuable insights and emotional support.
- Negative: Family advice may be conflicting, making the decision-making process more challenging.

4. Waiting for the Due Date:

- Positive: The baby may be born healthy, and Maria's health could stabilize naturally.
- Negative: Delaying treatment may increase the risks to Maria's health.

5. Undergoing Chemotherapy While Pregnant:

- Positive: Maria may receive necessary medical treatment, potentially improving her health.
- Negative: There's a risk of harm to the baby, and it may go against religious beliefs.

Considering Ethical Principles:

1. Medical Ethics (Preserving the Mother's Life):

- Positive: Prioritizes the health and survival of the mother.
- Negative: May pose risks to the baby and conflict with personal or religious values.

2. Religious Beliefs (Opposition to Abortion):

- Positive: Aligns with religious values and beliefs.
- Negative: May result in the endangerment of Maria's life.

3. Legal Framework (Abortion Laws):

- Positive: Adherence to local laws and regulations.
- Negative: Laws may be restrictive or may not align with their personal situation.

4. Cultural Values (Responsibility for the Child):

- Positive: Emphasizes the importance of responsibility for the child.
- Negative: May lead to a decision that prioritizes the baby's life over the mother's.

In weighing these consequences, it's clear that there are complex and potentially conflicting factors at play. The decision Maria and
her husband make will depend on their individual values, beliefs, and the medical advice they receive. Seeking guidance from medical
professionals and support from their network will be crucial in making a decision that they believe is in the best interest of both Maria
and the baby.Each of these alternatives comes with its own set of ethical, practical, and emotional considerations. Maria and her
husband should carefully evaluate these options considering their beliefs, values, and individual circumstances to make the best
decision for their unique situation.

Step 7 (Make a decision)

The most advisable course of action would be to proceed with the abortion. This can potentially preserve the mother's life, and they
could contemplate the possibility of adopting a child. Although this will undoubtedly be a challenging choice, prioritizing the
preservation of lives remains a paramount concern in the field of medicine.