The late Dr. Donald Low was a wise and compassionate man. His courageous call for legalized, doctor-assisted suicide may be unpopular with many but some of us applaud his frankness. For most of us our own death is a nebulous future event that is disconcerting to contemplate, let alone talk about.
Only when death’s cold cruel hands are tearing at our bodies, will we truly appreciate what Dr. Low was advocating.
Those who obstinately declare that God should decide when and how life ends, display an ‘I-know-what-is-best-for-you’ arrogance. Those of us who would welcome a painless and dignified final exit should have the right to choose.
The risk that someone might abuse Dr. Low’s proposed procedure is relatively insignificant when compared with the pain and suffering being endured by many frail and helpless individuals currently in our medical institutions.
The Canadian Charter of Right and Freedoms states everyone has the freedom of conscience and religion. Unfortunately, the right of a rational person to terminate his or her own torturous death was not added to the list of freedoms.
This issue can be shrugged off by popularity-driven politicians, but Dr. Low knew what he was talking about.
Lloyd Atkins
Vernon
