No one with a terminal illness should be forced to suffer against their wishes. Denying dying patients the right to choose a quick end to their otherwise inescapable pain robs them of their dignity. Allowing them that choice is compassionate and respectful of their personal autonomy.
The option to request medical aid in dying has been available to terminally ill patients in Oregon for more than 18 years with great success. HB 5802, much like the bills passed in Oregon, California, and several other states, has numerous safeguards to prevent abuse and other unintended negative consequences. These safeguards include: mental health consultation, the patient’s wishes being corroborated by two witnesses who have nothing to gain by the patient’s death, and a provision that the patient self-administer the medication. Furthermore, HB 5802 will protect the patient’s life insurance by ensuring that the terminal illness is listed as the cause of death.
The fiercest opponent of ‘death with dignity’ legislation has been the Catholic Church, which has spent millions to spread misinformation and fear surrounding this issue. Our government is not and should not be beholden to the doctrines of any church, and the rights of patients should likewise not be hindered by the religious beliefs of others.
It is unconscionable to deny a dying person the opportunity to exercise personal autonomy on this most private and personal issue, and it is unconstitutional for the religious beliefs of others to limit a patient's choices. Stand with us in support of HB 5802 the Michigan Death with Dignity Act.
http://action.secular.org/secular/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=236593
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