I take your point about having a living will. But why on Earth would Mr. Schiavo insist on terminating the life support for his wife, and do so at a considerable personal cost? The guy could have gotten a divorce long time ago, i.e. after he won a $700k settlement for her care and $300k for himself. Republicans do that routinely to their ailing wives and every court in this country would grant him a divorce. He could pocket the money, start a new life and forget about it.
The fact that he did not do it and that he risks dragging his personal life through hell is a good sign that he still cares about her and most likely wants to fulfill her wishes. And that there is no written living will? How many people who prepared their living will at 27 years fo age do you know? I'd rather trust a husband who does not quit the case even if could comfortably do so, than the parents, especially if they appear to be controlling religious fanatics. My wife knows more about me and my wishes and desires than my parents, whom I love dearly. I think this is the norm.
Wojtek