Suzanne Vitadamo (L), sister of brain-damaged Florida woman Terri Schiavo speaks to the media accompanied by her father Bob Schindler in front of the Woodside Hospice where Schiavo died this morning, in Pinellas Park, Florida, March 31, 2005. (REUTERS/Carlos Barria)

Florida—For the first time since their sister’s death, Terri Schiavo’s siblings spoke publicly Thursday offering words of gratitude to their supporters, including the politicians who tried to save Terri’s life.

“As you are aware, Terri is now with God and she’s been released from all earthly burdens. After these recent years of neglect at the hands of those who are supposed to protect and care for her, she is finally at peace with God for eternity,” said Terri’s sister, Suzanne Vitadamo, who thanked the volunteers, doctors, and lawyers.

Vitadamo also sent a message to those who have threatened violence in the wake of Terri’s death. “Following the example of the Lord Jesus, our family abhors any violence or any threats of violence. Threatening words dishonor our family, our faith and our sister Terri,” she said.

In a message to the media, Vitadamo said, “We really appreciate you taking Terri’s case to the nation. Please afford our family privacy to grieve at this time. The patience and graciousness of the on-site media here at hospice has been deeply appreciated by our family.”

Terri’s sister also thanked religious leaders, specifically, Pope John Paul II, for their words of encouragement and religious convictions. “Our family is highly honored that the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, would speak out so boldly on behalf of our sister Terri,” Vitadamo said.

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.