assisted dying

[glyn]

Not sure you got my point, glyn - but never mind.

Yes I understood Caz, perhaps you didnt spot the "smiley"..no worries

[Magpie]

The problem is that some of these people may not be in their "right mind" or certainly in the right condition to make rational decisions, and thus could be prey to manipulation for various reasons.

All the more reason why the topic should be out in the open so that discussions can take place and decisions can be made before people reach that stage.

Much the same as the organ-donor issue. You have to discuss it with your family before the time comes so that a) they know your wishes, and b) you are aware of any objections your family may have. You would be surprised (and possibly dismayed) at how many people fill out the orgon donor forms, only to have their family refuse to comply after they have passed (and you can sign a hundred OD cards--your right to consent dies right along with you).

[Ally]

You know one of the things I don't get with the whole "cost saving" argument is there is a much easier way to save costs if that is doctors main goal: don't bother treating at all. You are 68 and have cancer? Docs can just say, your cancer is too far advanced and not bother treating you and send you home to die.

The idea that doctors will push active killing to eliminate costs when all they have to do is do nothing and you will die anyway.

Where's the savings? It's like Caz already said, it's like some people think dying is optional. Doctors don't have to go out of their way to kill you, it's going to happen despite their efforts.

[Errata]

You are 68 and have cancer? Docs can just say, your cancer is too far advanced and not bother treating you and send you home to die.

There is this thing that for some reason drives me crazy here. Famous people die, an they report that the person "Died of cancer at the age of 97" or "Died of heart failure at the age of 89"

I'm pretty sure the 97 part has more to do with the death than the cancer. I am absolutely sure that being 89 caused the heart failure. So why not just say "Died at the age of 97"? I mean, they were 97. They had a really good run. They were not cut down in their prime in a way that requires explanation.

I don't know why that irritates me but it does.