Terri's brother, Robert Schindler Jr., called on parents everywhere to cherish every moment with their child "as a precious gift from God."

In a message to his sister Terri, Robert Schindler Jr., said, "As a member of our family unable to speak for yourself, you spoke loudly. As a member of our family unable to stand under your own power, you stood with a grace and a dignity that made your family proud."

Robert Jr., said Terri's plight emboldened the pro-life movement and highlighted the struggles of disabled people everywhere.

"Terri, your life and legacy will continue to live on as the nation is now awakened to the plight of thousands of people with disabilities that were previously unnoticed. Your family intends to stand up for the other Terris around this nation, and we will do all that we can to change the law so others won't face the same fate that has befallen you," he said.

"God's plan for Terri is unfolding before our eyes. Our prayer at this time is that our nation will remember the plight of persons with disabilities and commit within our hearts to defend their lives and their dignity for many generations to come," Robert Jr., concluded.