Quinlan, Karen Ann

Karen Ann Quinlan was a pivotal figure in advancing discussions about end-of-life medical ethics. In the 1970s, she became famous after healthy young woman she had fallen into a coma, with doctors recommending stopping life support. Her family sought to continue her care, leading to legal battles that established the right to refuse or withdraw life-sustaining treatment. Quinlan's case helped shape modern laws and ethical standards surrounding patient autonomy, informed consent, and the right to die with dignity, influencing medical practice and legislation worldwide.