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I am curious as to what people think about this case. The 13 year old boy who was ordered, by a judge, to undergo chemo for his Hodgkins cancer after his parents were accused of medical negligence for not treating him. His family belongs to a religious group who only believes in natural meds. Him and his mother are now "missing."

Here is my take:
While most people argue that a 13 year old is not old enough to make a decision, we charge minors as adults all the time. They are deemed mature enough to be held responsible for their decisions; yet, in this case, he had that right taken away. If he wants to die naturally, I say he is old enough to determine that for himself. Sure, he should have been ordered by the judge to undergo counseling, and education about chemo and other meds available. I know one can argue he has been brainwashed by his parents, but if that is their belief system, who are we as people, and even judges, to say they are wrong?

Chemo only bolsters your succes rate from about 2% to 4%. Yes, that is double then if you do not take chemo, but it is only 4%. Can we really blame him for not wanting it?

Also, if he was a child under, say, 10, which I believe is the youngest person we recently have held as an adult, then I can see where he would be legally forced. But he is old enough to be charged as an adult, which is my point here.
Any one else agree, disagree, think I am nuts?

the young boy, his name is daniel, has a learning disability and cannot read, i think he should be removed from his parents care

This is a real delema....
Fact- If the child is a minor he can be taken away from parents for abuse. Is this refusal of proper medical care abuse? Well, as the law sees it, yes. As I see it, yes. However, as a parent I do not want to be told how to raise my child.
I guess.. IMHO... I feel the parents are wrong to cite religious reasons for not giving the proper care to a minor child.
I can honestly say I am very torn in this question...
My opinion would be yes, the child should receive proper medical treatment.

do you remember if the family got charged with anything? my girlfriend started working at the hospital in the 70's
they have so many unusual beliefs, i have to agree with you

I hate to say it, but I tend to belive those are "cults" as well. On the other hand, I really try and believe they think they are doing what they believe is right, which is their right to do so - unless it infringes upon my health. I just wish I knew what disability this boy has. Of course, I am sure the judge knew what it was and that is why he rendered his verdict (at least I hope that would be why, not just b/c he believes he has the right to tell these parents they are wrong).

And even if his disability was not present, and he was part of a cult, is it not illegal. If you try and fail to commit suicide, you are not charged with anything. If he was mentally fit, I still say if he wants to die due to his "cult" beliefs, it is his right. But I guess that is irrelevant at this point to the story.