Cassandra Callender: Forced Chemotherapy and Her Passing

Background

• Cassandra Callender was a teenager from Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
• She was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma.
• Known publicly as Cassandra C. during legal proceedings.

Legal Battle

• 2015: Connecticut courts ordered her to undergo chemotherapy against her will.
  • Cassandra refused treatment, citing a desire to avoid "poisoning" her body.
• State Department of Children and Families intervened.
  • Cassandra was removed from her home, placed under guard at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.
• The case escalated to the state Supreme Court, which ruled against her.
  • The decision was based on the "mature minor doctrine," questioning her maturity to make medical decisions.

Treatment and Outcome

• A port was implanted against her will for chemotherapy.
• Lived in the hospital for six months.
• In 2016, Cassandra revealed a mass was found in her lungs.
  • Opted for alternative treatments as an adult.
  • Later agreed to more chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
• Despite treatment, her cancer spread.
• Passed away at age 22, after a five-year battle with cancer.

Personal Life

• During her illness, Cassandra gave birth to twin sons.
• Remembered by her mother as intelligent and well-liked, but denied teenage experiences (e.g., driving license).

Family’s Perspective

• Her mother, Jackie Fortin, criticized the court-ordered treatments.
  • Believes Cassandra should have had the autonomy to make her own medical choices.
  • Described the experience as horrific and blames the medical staff and legal system for Cassandra’s suffering.
• Plans to set up a website to help cover funeral costs.

Reflection

• The case highlights ethical questions about medical autonomy for minors and the role of the state in medical decisions.