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Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Over Discarded Brain Donation Rights

11/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

A Milwaukee County judge dismissed a lawsuit against Children's Wisconsin after the hospital discarded half of Ashtyn Fellenz's donated brain, upholding the applicable law.
The judge ruled donors relinquish rights to their tissue upon removal.
Ashtyn's parents plan to appeal to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, arguing their consent was for research.
Their attorney, James Gende, said the ruling could deter future donations.
Judge Tim Witkowiak acknowledged the tragedy.

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Story summary

A Milwaukee County judge dismissed a lawsuit against Children's Wisconsin after the hospital discarded half of Ashtyn Fellenz's donated brain, upholding the applicable law.
The judge ruled donors relinquish rights to their tissue upon removal.
Ashtyn's parents plan to appeal to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, arguing their consent was for research.
Their attorney, James Gende, said the ruling could deter future donations.
Judge Tim Witkowiak acknowledged the tragedy.