People should have the right to die with dignity, says a reader.
People should have the right to die with dignity, says a reader.
After reading the letters column in your paper March 17 "Oldies Know" and "Dying with dignity" March 7, I felt strongly, as a first time writer, to write to your paper.
Eight years ago my mother died from terminal cancer, my father-in-law died 20 weeks ago from cancer and recentlyan aunt passed away after a severe stroke which left her unable to speak, swallow and totally dependant on caregivers, wasting away before our very eyes.
If it was an animal and no treatment was sought - we would be had up for animal cruelty.
We had an old dog who suffered a stroke, was over 13 years old and had cancerous lumps. I had to take him to the vet, where the vet administered an injection. He died quickly, peacefully and with dignity.
Why can't we have the right to do so humanely for our own (via health professionals) who have a terminal illness, lingering death and old age.
"I've had a good life but I know my life is over now. Why can't I be allowed to pass on in peace, comfort and dignity" John Ross. It's high time the law was changed - have a referendum at election time so all consenting New Zealanders can have their say.
