Many think that the decision 20 years ago to permit Terri Schiavo to die was a victory for medical choice. On the contrary, her death triggered a series of events that have corroded individual control over medical care in the United States.

What is at stake in calling extreme, end-stage anorexia nervosa a terminal condition? It may be thought to have implications for end-of-life decisions. I will argue that this is a mistake, although one that needs explanation.