[DruannB]

Thank you all. Your words have actually been a comfort to me. I have a friend who decided this week to not continue treatment for her cancer. She's 55. Instead, she wants to die "with dignity" she says. This has really torn me up. Reading all of your thoughts/comments makes me realize that she is very much entitled to choose her own route. I'm just being selfish. And because of your comments I also now know that I need "a plan." I thought a DNR was sufficient.

[Halibut]

I've always thought that, since we all die, being given a terminal diagnosis would be a gift. To know the end is near, to be able to prepare, make amends, say goodbye. My fear is not death but an unforeseen and sudden incapacitating illness with no way out.

I have a neurological disease that will not kill me but will slowly remove my ability to walk or take care of myself. My plan is to design my death on my own time. For me, it's the most pragmatic and painless solution as well as the kindest for my loved one.

[Chi-Town]

Brittany Maynard ended her life. She believed that death with dignity was her way.

[er9027]

she took her life today

[Bonanza]

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned Dr. Kevorkian. Not only do I believe that he performed a real service to those who wanted to die, but I believe it was his compassion that permitted him to help those people.

I believe laws should be changed regarding people who want to die. Making the decision is easy. However carrying out that decision is very difficult. If someone is serious about helping that person (as was Dr. Kevorkian), the laws need to be changed to permit it. I find it sad that the law stands in the way of this kind of thing.

[patfla06]

As we get older we talk about these topics a lot more.
(not fun but necessary!)

Taking one's life is a hard topic, especially with religious beliefs
making it hard to think of doing this.

I do think that speculating about "what if" is very different then
what you decide when you are terminally ill. Especially if you
are in terrible pain and are suffering.

None of us want to see our loved ones suffer.
It's hard to let go also.
We all want quality of life. But there are no easy answers.

God bless everyone in failing health and those with family members
or friends in this position.

[TheVillageChicken]

I have a plan and a reciprocal pact with my oldest friend to see that it is carried out.