Opinions Differ Regarding Hemlock Society Euthanasia

By Ruthie Calderon


In 1980 an organization promoting the right-to-die for people with a terminal illness was founded. Currently called Compassion And Choices, it does not believe people should suffer. Rather, it promotes the goals of the hemlock society euthanasia being a peaceful death.

Not many people keep pets alive when they are in pain and there is nothing left but a lingering few days of pain. It is kind to assist them by providing a gentle method of dying. It is an act of love on the part of the pet parent. It only makes sense that this kindness should be extended to a beloved family member.

While hospice care may be excellent, it does not completely obliterate all the pain. Many physicians have an unspoken and unacknowledged agreement with the family to increase the pain medication to a level that will induce a peaceful ending to the pain. In this way a pointless period of a few days suffering will be allayed.

In the state of Oregon, Dying with Dignity is a legally acceptable way to a peaceful death. Religious or other beliefs may see some patients who want to stay alive as long as possible. None of them are convinced to change their minds and hasten their death. By the same token, the patient wanting to end his suffering can have a gentle, non-violent ending.

If a peaceful death is not available for some terminal patients, they may end their own lives in traumatic ways. This would only add to the sadness experienced by the loved ones left behind. How horrible for them to leap from tall buildings or resort to shooting themselves. The peaceful ending should be available to all who need to escape their pain.

Just having the medication to end life is comfort enough. It allows the patient to feel in control of his life and his choices to continue it or end it. Often that option is not used, but simply provides the security of knowing it is available.

Lethal injection is one method of euthanasia used to provide an end to life for patients close to the end or those who suffer chronic pain that is not going to be alleviated. Drugs are administered orally, intravenously or intramuscularly. Some critically ill people are unable to swallow and therefore need the intramuscular or intravenous method. The fastest method is introducing three different medications through an IV.

When the patient is being kept breathing by artificial means, it is up to the relative named in the living will to direct the doctor to turn off the machines. The trusted relative will stand by to see that the final wishes are carried out. This living will is a legal document that is signed, witnessed and notarized.

A senior citizen or anyone else might want this viable document for their peace of mind. In case of an accident to a younger person, they will be sure not to be left alive in a vegetative state. They can legally refuse any lifesaving methods be administered. They can be sure that will not happen.

If it states that only palliative care should be provided, then no other care can be imposed. If they are no longer conscious, their wishes will be honored. The living will is a legal document, signed and witnessed by two other people.




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