As a late stage cancer survivor, and someone who has, and is currently advocating for cancer patients with terminal diagnoses, Im a huge fan of the Death with Dignity Act in WA State. Its one of the main reasons I moved my family back to the Seattle area, as I have few options medically if I have a recurrence. In the Five years Ive been a patient advocate for Cancer patients, Ive held the hands of those who no longer have options through our medical system and have been sent home or to hospice to pass on. Ive witnessed them begging for mercy and death due to the unbearable pain the disease causes them and their families. I find it odd that only a handful of States in our country have such laws, yet I believe every state allows the euthanasia of animals as its considered humane. We dont want our pets to suffer, but somehow its OK for ourselves or our loved ones? I applaud Brittany and completely understand her position. Cancer steals, kills, and destroys in the most awful way imaginable...having faced it I understand the desire to go out on your own terms, to have the final say. To finally wrestle back some sense of control. I recently began advocating for a gentleman with a young family that was handed a terminal diagnosis from an Oral Cancer recurrence. After listening to me explain his eventuality, and then explain to him his options, it was amazing to me to see his reaction to the Death with Dignity option he has as a WA resident. His reaction was similar to my own, it was freedom, empowerment, it was like handing him back the reigns to his life. He immediately began making plans to see family, and arranged a trip to see his father who he had a falling out with years ago, to make amends. Were helping him plan to try to restore the old cars he wants to give to his children to remember him by. It was amazing to see a depressed, defeated young man suddenly energized by the knowledge that he doesnt have to suffer, or put his family through any more pain, he gets to choose when is enough. Thank you Brittany Maynard for your bravery, and sharing your story. May your last days be filled with love and laughter, instead of worry, fear, pain and suffering. Peace and love, E
Posted on: Wed, 08 Oct 2014 05:46:33 +0000
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