How would you simply answer to this response? "I believe that a 17 year old should be able to make decisions about their own mortality with a disease. Being a parent, I of course, want my child to have all the medical interventions possible. However, if it is terminal, a discussion should be had with the minor about what they want. As far as if it is legal for the doctor to intubate or not based off of what a 17 year old says, it depends on the state. There is not a national law stating that a minor needs to be at least 18 years old to make those decisions. There are states that it is legal for a 16 or 17 year old to make those decisions for themselves. There are states that 18 is the age. There are also exceptions to the state laws such as being emancipated, being mature enough to know the consequences of their decision, and other minor health concerns. I think in this case, the discussion needs to be had with the patient and the mother. Depending on which state they are in, determines the law. There should be a DNR signed by the patient in case he does code again so the doctors have documentation as to what procedures can be done. I think this is a moral vs law situation and it should be left up to the individual no matter how much it may hurt emotionally to those who love him/her."