Death

Re “Teenager Who Was Hit by Baseball Dies When Taken Off Life Support,” June 25:

There is a common misconception that there is a difference between “brain-death” and “death.” Your article stated that Julius Riofrir, who was declared brain-dead on Monday, died on Tuesday after life-support systems were removed. This is inaccurate, from both a medical and legal standpoint. Julius’ family did not “keep him alive until organ donation arrangements could be made.” Likewise, they did not kill him by removing life-support. Julius died Monday, the day his brain ceased to function. His body functions were artificially supported for the purpose of keeping his organs viable for transplant.

KATHERINE LEHMAN MD

San Dimas