Long-time readers of the 80-something blog, will recall that my husband Peter voluntarily stopped eating and drinking in October, 2021 because his quality of life had deteriorated from Parkinson’s Disease to the point that he did not want to live.  Although I still miss him every day, we had 56 wonderful years together and I am forever grateful for that

But watching him suffer while starving himself to death were the worst eight days of my life.  And although how one chooses to deal with end-of-life issues is a personal decision, I believe that medical aid in dying should be an option for those who would choose it.

In ten states and the District of Columbia, medical aid in dying is available under very specific circumstances and with detailed safeguards.  Although additional states are considering this legislation, there is strong opposition by the Catholic church and the handicapped population.  I respect the wishes of those who oppose this option, but hope that they would not prevent those who choose to end their suffering in a peaceful way, surrounded by their loved ones, to do so.

You can learn more at https://compassionandchoices.org/