parents of 12-year-old boy who suffered from a “catastrophic” brain injury was denied leave to appeal against a decision end his life support treatment.
Holly Dance and Paul Battersby from Southend in Essex, fought for them son Archie will continue treatment for while his heart is beating. But on Monday court of the appeal held that there were no grounds for them challenge in decision by a Supreme Court judge 10 days ago that continuing Archie’s treatment was “useless”.
Edward Devereux QC representing Archie’s parents asked for in decision be carried over to 12-year-old father was taken to the hospital on Monday morning with suspected heart attack or a stroke. Court heard he previously had a heart attack last year.
Sir Andrew Macfarlane (seated) with two other judges said he was “extremely sympathetic” to the plight of Paul Battersby, but this is not in Archie’s interests hold up decision.
“After careful consideration, we are denying leave to appeal,” McFarlane said. He then interrupted the hearing and said that set out his reasons later on Monday.
Before decision was given, Devereaux indicated that Archie parents had to go back to the high court to seek another hearing based on on fresh evidence. He said dance saw her son try to take a breath on Friday and Saturday.
Archie suffered brain damage about three months ago when he mother thinks he suffocated while taking part in viral social media a trend known as “blackout”. challenge”.
