The federal government’s intention to appeal the B.C. assisted dying case will only prolong suffering.
We are talking about those who are near the end of their lives and have the misfortune to be in the situation they find themselves in.
At this stage they must rely on others and machines for the very essentials of life, including breathing and eating.
This is not living life but being kept alive.
I see no sanctity in this.
The decision of the B.C. Supreme Court was thoroughly reasoned and is very narrow in scope. To invoke the “slippery slope” argument is fear-mongering. There is no question in my mind that effective safeguards can be built in to root out misuse.
Other jurisdictions have proved it.
As for wanting to overturn Gloria Taylor’s exemption, that is the height of cruelty and callousness.
She sounds articulate and in total control of her senses.
The government must not interfere with her choices. In my view, she wants to honour her life – the life she has lived – and not end up with helplessness of being caught in a downward spiral.
Those who say the pain, etc. can be managed are only espousing theory.
Only the sufferer knows.
Dave Bains
Surrey