Pastoral Message on Michael Hickson

Bishop Joe S. Vásquez releases a pastoral message about the death of Mr. Michael Hickson: “I have seen the news reports of the tragic death of Mr. Michael Hickson at St. David’s Hospital in Austin. I pray for the repose of his soul and for healing and peace for his family. Medical decisions should always be based on the effectiveness of the treatment, given the clinical circumstances of the patient, rather than on a subjective “quality of life” judgment, particularly when such judgment is made with regard to another. All life has quality and dignity by the very truth of being created in the image and likeness of God. I believe that the Texas Medical Board is the proper authority to investigate allegations of violations of standard of care.”