Dying at home is dignified option
IT was truly heartbreaking to read about Dawn Voice-Cooper’s decision to end her life at a Swiss clinic due to the worsening effects of the incurable illnesses she suffered from (Mirror, November 2 and 3).
Those with terminal illness or in severe pain should have the right to choose the way in which they wish to die and no law or legislation should prevent or inhibit them.
The UK needs to follow the example of other countries like Canada, which have legalised assisted dying. It is reprehensible that people with an acute and incurable illness have to travel to another country to end their suffering. We should allow them to die with dignity in their own country.
M Smith, Chatham, Kent
I fully support the assisted dying bill as I have lost four of my family to cancer and seen them suffer in unimaginable agony. My brother begged me to ask doctors not to “let him go on” as he put it, and I was helpless. I watched him and the other loved ones pass and was unable to help. The stress of it all led me to have a heart attack. May those able to do something to stop this inhumane process please pass this essential bill. Pauline Seviour, Bath
Few could fail to be grateful that Mrs Voice-Cooper’s pain and suffering are at an end and to send condolences to their family. A painless and happy death surrounded by loved ones is something for which most people hope. I can’t, however, support those who wish to
legalise assisted suicide. Elderly people may well be pressurised by relatives into thinking they are a burden and the scandal of the Liverpool Care Pathway could mean the NHS may feel it’s more financially viable to bring the lives of critically ill patients to an end.
To have wider awareness of compassionate end-of-life care is surely far preferable?
Keeley-Jasmine Cavendish South East London
Your story about Dawn VoiceCooper choosing to end her life in a Swiss clinic rather than face more illness and distress is both heartbreaking and all too familiar. Opponents of assisted suicide who want life to be preserved at all costs are entitled to their opinion, but differing views should be respected.
Keith Baty, Carlisle, Cumbria
Ms Voice-Cooper’s story is heart-rending and I share her sincere desire to reduce the terrible burden of human suffering. Her family and friends have my deepest condolences.
However, bringing assisted dying to the UK is the wrong solution. In
truth, we put our pets down because of vets’ bills. She deserved world-leading care, not an assisted death. If legalised, assisted dying could be expanded to include the mentally unwell, people unable to consent and even children. The safeguards will fail, leading to abuse and neglect.
Dr M Davis, Birmingham
It’s very sad when someone is terminally ill or in pain every day yet is forced to go to another country to bring an end to their suffering. They should be able to do this in their own home surrounded by their loved ones and not have to go through all the stress and trauma of travelling abroad.
Jane Lambourne, Swindon, Wilts
Anyone who has watched a loved one suffer and die with a terminal disease knows and understands why personal choice must be allowed. It shouldn’t be a traumatic, costly event.
Drinking champagne and being surrounded by loved ones in your own home at a time chosen must become a right.