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Cassandra Callender's Forced Treatment Tragedy

Jan 24, 2025

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.