For Release: Aug. 16, 2006
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: jtmartin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
“This morning, Abraham Cherrix’s parents reached an agreement with the Accomack County Department of Social Services to allow Abraham to undergo an encouraging new treatment he and his parents have chosen to treat his cancer. He will not be subjected to chemotherapy against his will. This is a just outcome that vindicates the interests of all parties, and I commend all those involved in resolving this matter amicably.”
“Abraham and his family asked that they, after careful and intensive study, be allowed to choose the treatment they believe to be best. On Monday, I filed an amicus brief in the Circuit Court of Accomack County, analyzing the legal framework supporting the parent’s right to make this decision in the best interest of their son. Parental responsibility for the care, control and custody of children has long been viewed as a fundamental constitutional right, and is a foundational belief of all Virginians. This is the kind of difficult personal decision that the state must allow parents to make, absent a clear case of neglect. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Abraham Cherrix and his family as they focus on Abraham’s long-term health.”
