An awareness observance on March 31 promoting prayer, remembrance, and activism for the dignity of vulnerable persons, particularly the disabled and medically fragile.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
The Terri Schindler-Schiavo Foundation and Priests for Life jointly established the observance in December 2007 as the International Day of Prayer and Remembrance for Terri Schindler Schiavo. It is observed on March 31, the anniversary of Terri Schiavo's death in 2005.
On March 31, we honor the legacy of Terri Schiavo with Terri's Day. This day commemorates the life of a woman who became the center of a highly publicized right-to-die case in 2005. Despite being in a persistent vegetative state, Terri's family fought for her right to live while her husband argued for her right to die. While this controversy sparked a national debate on end-of-life care and medical ethics, Terri's Day is an opportunity to remember that every life is valuable and should be treated with dignity and respect. It's a reminder to cherish our loved ones and make sure their wishes are known in difficult situations. Let's use this day to celebrate Terri's memory and spread awareness about end-of-life care.
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
By observing Terri's Day, we can come together as a community and show support for those who may be going through similar situations. It allows us to show our empathy and understanding towards individuals and families facing end-of-life decisions.
Terri's Day serves as a way to remember and pay tribute to Terri Schiavo, a woman who faced a heartbreaking and controversial situation. By celebrating this day, we can honor her life and legacy.
Terri's Day also serves as a reminder of the difficult decisions that families may face in regards to end-of-life care for their loved ones. It raises important discussions about ethics, autonomy, and quality of life.
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