A Choice for K'Aila (1990)

Abstract

This program tells the story of Francois and Leslie Paulette of Alberta, Canada who decided to let their newborn son K'aila die naturally from liver disease [bilary artresia or giant-cell hepatitis] rather than have him undergo a liver transplant. Their pediatrician challenged their decision not to seek the liver transplant and the Paulettes had to defend their decision in court. What is the role of parents in making life or death decisions for their children? What if the medical treatment available may prolong life but have possible long-term, serious consequences? "Should parents pay any price to prolong the life of a dying child? What if the only medical treatment available brings with it possible long-term suffering? This is the story of K'aila, whose paretns fought their doctor in a court battle over a potentially life-saving liver transplant." [description from DVD case]