Mother fighting for sick son's 'right to life' awaits judge's decision

A mother who began a High Court fight for her sick son's "right to life" is awaiting a judge's ruling, after specialists said he could not be cured.

Doctors have told Mr Justice MacDonald how the youngster was diagnosed with bone cancer four years ago, and suggest he move to a palliative care regime which will ensure he suffers "the least pain" in his final months.

But the boy's parents disagree with doctors' plans, with his mother telling the judge at a private hearing in London that his human rights needed to be respected.

Mr Justice MacDonald started looking at the evidence on Thursday, and is expected to deliver a ruling on Friday.

He said journalists could attend, but nothing could be reported which might lead to the identification of the youngster, as well as banning reporting on the name of the hospital authority responsible for his care.

Specialists said the boy's disease had reached a point where "curative treatment" is no longer possible, and that his pain will "increase significantly".

One specialist told the judge that the boy had a "huge painful tumour" which was "fast growing".

Another wiped away tears while giving evidence, telling the boy's parents: "I see the pain and I see the love and, yes, I think he is going to die.".

His mother told the judge she disagreed with doctors' diagnoses, and did not think that her son's human rights were being respected.

"Why does it have to be pre-determined, with 'this child is going to die so we need to do this, this, this and this'," she said.

"I tell you what, I am not buying that coffin because he is going to live.

"I will not accept that my child is signed off just like that."