I have always been broadly in favour of assisted dying, based on the argument that we put our pets to sleep when they lose their joy and dignity, that people should have absolute authority and autonomy over their lives and bodies, and that many illnesses make dying an awful, painful experience.
However, with recent wider political debate about the concept, I have started to wonder why there is such emphasis on the person being able to administer the fatal medication themselves? Surely that leaves the patient more likely to suffer manipulation and guilt tripping, because they’re doing it themselves and still have consciousness and rationality; whereas if the decision were to be made by NoK alongside a couple of doctors once the person is in so much pain or has lost consciousness it would be more safeguarded. And potentially easier for all concerned.
The question is informed by my experience caring for a parent and for a friend, both of whom died from cancer. I have also held a pet while they passed from a pts injection. Interested to hear others’ thoughts on why the legislation debated insists on making it possible only for people to self-administer, potentially doing it before they are ready to stop living.