ATLANTA, Georgia — A 30-year-old pregnant woman, Adriana Smith, has been on life support for over 90 days after being declared brain dead due to a medical emergency. Her family reports that Georgia’s strict anti-abortion laws have forced doctors to keep her alive, preventing them from making any decisions regarding her care.
According to April Newkirk, Smith’s mother, her daughter began experiencing severe headaches in early February when she was nine weeks pregnant. After seeking help at Northside Hospital, where Smith was sent home with medication but no tests conducted, her condition dramatically worsened the following day. Newkirk explained that Smith’s boyfriend discovered her gasping for air and immediately called 911.
After being transported to Emory Decatur and then to Emory University Hospital, a CT scan revealed multiple blood clots in Smith’s brain. She was subsequently declared brain dead. Newkirk stated, “It’s torture for me. I see my daughter breathing, but she’s not there.” Smith is currently 21 weeks pregnant, and doctors plan to keep her alive until the baby reaches a gestational age of approximately 32 weeks.
Under Georgia’s ‘heartbeat bill,’ signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp in 2019, abortions are banned once cardiac activity is detected, which typically occurs around six weeks of pregnancy. There are limited exceptions for instances where the mother’s life is in danger or in cases of rape or incest. However, Newkirk expressed her concern, saying, “It should have been left up to the family.”
In statements to local news, medical representatives have maintained that their decisions are compliant with Georgia’s laws. A spokesperson for Emory Healthcare emphasized their commitment to the safety and well-being of patients while navigating complex legal frameworks.
Monica Simpson, executive director of SisterSong, voiced concern regarding Smith’s situation. She stated, “Her family deserved the right to have decision-making power about her medical decisions.” Newkirk echoed this sentiment, expressing the anguish of being unable to pursue options that could alleviate their suffering.
As the family grapples with both the emotional and financial burdens of Smith’s ongoing medical care, they remain hopeful for their unborn grandchild’s wellbeing. Newkirk noted, “He may be blind, may not be able to walk, may not survive once he’s born.” In light of these challenges, Newkirk has called for greater awareness around the ramifications of Georgia’s abortion laws, highlighting the need for more compassionate decision-making in healthcare.
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