‘Assisted dying: not in our name’ is a significant article by British MP Jane Campbell who was born with spinal muscular atrophy arguing on behalf of people like herself, people suffering disability and terminal illness, that their lives not be seen as a tragic burden and therefore opposing the proposed assisted dying legislation.
Concern among disabled people about the assisted dying bill led to the formation of “Not Dead Yet UK” in 2004, an organisation of disabled and terminally ill people alarmed that proponents of assisted dying were often going unchallenged. We wanted to show that opposition to euthanasia was not confined to the medical profession and faith leaders, who have been dismissed as defenders of vested interests and religious zealots. That is why it is so important that you hear our voices today. . .
If these amendments succeed, despair will be endorsed as a reasonable expectation for which early state-sanctioned death is an effective remedy. Is that really the message we wish to give to disabled and terminally ill people? Is this really the future we wish to offer those who become disabled and terminally ill? Those of us who know what is to be disabled with a terminal condition are fearful that the tide has already turned against us. If I should ever seek death at those times when my progressive condition challenges me, I want to know that you are there supporting my continued life and its value. The last thing I want is for you to give up on me, especially when I need you the most.
Breaking news: Lords reject assisted dying law July 8
The House of Lords voted against a controversial move to protect Britons who help terminally-ill relatives travel to die at assisted suicide clinics overseas.
A parishioner couple I spoke to recently told me they had changed their mind about Euthanasia. When they were younger and healthier, they thought it was quite a good idea. As they have become older and more frail, they fear that they will be seen as a burden, and that if Euthanasia is allowed, then eventually, some will want to have them “put-away”, despite al the promised safeguards. As she said to me – “We’re not animals!”
I had dinner with 6 other “baby boomer” ladies last night and Euthanasia came up in the conversation. Two ladies agreed with right to end ones own life, three others were undecided and one (a Dr’s wife) was against euthanasia. I was grateful that I had some information on this topic and was able to express comments from the “against” point of view.
And so to prayer