November 17, 2003

By Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com Editor

Pinellas Park, FL (LifeNews.com) -- Grassroots supporters of Terri Schiavo, the disabled woman whose
husband is attempting to starve her to death, are asking pro-life people to participate in a nationwide vigil to support her.

Terri's family has not been alone in their efforts to save Terri's life. 

More than 150,000 people signed a petition to Governor Bush asking for him to intervene and prevent Michael Schiavo, Terri's estranged husband, from killing her. Others joined a prayer vigil outside Woodside Hospice where Terri has been living for years.

Bush responded to the grassroots call for help and worked with the state legislature to pass Terri's Law that allowed him to ask doctors to reinsert the feeding tube that is allowing her to stay alive.

Now, supporters across the country have started a new campaign to spotlight Terri's plight and save her from death via starvation and dehydration.

Julie Smithson of Ohio began "Terri's Lights," an effort to encourage those who back Terri's right to live to put candles in their window as a sign of support. "Terri's Lights" will be displayed until Terri is safe from harm and permitted to return to the care of her family. 

Pro-life advocates around the country are already participating.

Vickie, a mother in Tennessee, said she is supporting the effort and is using electric candles that are available during the Christmas season. 

Meanwhile, Jacque, a woman from Ohio, said her candles are "getting lit in the windows right now." She also has a prayer candle lit "so that everyone who comes into my home will know what it is for." 

The grassroots campaign has lifted Terri's family's spirit during this trying time. 

"We are truly overwhelmed and grateful for the many thoughts and prayers for Terri," said Mary Schindler, Terri's mother. 

"It helps to know that there are so many people who recognize that Terri is merely a disabled woman who deserves to be given a chance," Schindler added.

Terri's family is also encouraging supporters to back a green plaid ribbon campaign to raise awareness for Terri.

Terri's Lights are already being displayed throughout the United States and have reached as far as Australia.

Related web sites:                      

Terri's family - http://www.terrisfight.org  

http://www.lifenews.com/bio141.html