The right to die debate

I am writing in response to the story on page three of last week’s Midhurst Observer about Harvey Tordoff, who stated publicly that he wishes, when the time is right, to be allowed

to die.

What a difficult subject, and a subject that poses a huge dilemma for the medical profession.

The main goal of doctors is to help people to get better and to alleviate their suffering, but ultimately to keep them alive.

As I understand it, Harvey nursed his wife for many months until she died of terminal cancer.

He himself has been having cancer treatment, and he knows that the cancer will kill him.

Apparently, there is nothing the doctors can do to prevent that inevitable result.

He said in his interview with Observer journalist

Joe Stack that he has had a wonderful life. He had a happy marriage. They travelled extensively, were successful in business, contributed greatly to the community, and they have a son.

If this man is kept artificially alive when the symptoms get worse and his suffering increases, should he not be allowed to die peacefully if that is his wish?

Maybe it is time for the Suicide Act of 1961 to be reevaluated.

Tina Litchfield St Johns Close, Midhurst

There has been an outbreak of graffiti across our city