I have told my kids numerous times that if I ever get too sick to take care of myself, I want to be able to die peacefully with some dignity.
I do not want them to have to take care of my sick, bed-ridden self - if it ever comes to that.
I want them to remember me the way they like me best - hopefully that is not on my death bed...lol.
I am not going to lie - I am a fan of the late Jack Kevorkian.
I just realized, thanks to Brittany Maynard, that at least three states, including Oregon, have "Death With Dignity" laws.
I want to be living in one of those three states, if i ever become terminally ill. I choose Oregon because it is west and probably the warmest of the three. But I am open to any state with a DWD law.
Just so you know.
I like Brittany's attitude that dying with dignity is not suicide. She is not killing herself - the disease is. She is just choosing the way and time she lets that happen. I hope I have the strength to do the same if my life ever comes to that.
I have also read the essay written by Joe Neyer in response to Brittany's choice and her actions toward public awareness of the DWD option. I like Mr. Neyer's attitude that dying with dignity can include continuing to live a quality life. How true. Doctors are not always right, and there are lots of options.
I wish them both the best as they continue their journey. I appreciate that they have shared their story.
I agree Mary! Watching someone die is not something that I would wish on anyone- especially my family. I know that my grandpa would have chosen a more dignified death that was on his own terms because that's how he lived life- and that should be his right. But oh well, for now at least there's Oregon :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, Margo. RIP Brittany. I hope her efforts to encourage more states to to pass DWD laws are fruitful.
Delete