Is it a Crime to Die?

 I came across an article (click here to read it) that really moved me and I wanted to share it with you.  The article is about a recently married young woman (29 years old) who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness.  Rather than stay in California where laws would prevent her from choosing to die on her terms and die with dignity, she moved to Oregon where laws allowed her to have that option.

I have been thinking a lot about this as of lately.  My Grandmother has advanced alzheimer's.  It has been over eight years since I had an adult conversation with her.  It has been at least four since I was able to have a conversation with her that I might have with a four year old.

She is at the stage where she is wheel chair bound, in diapers, and drooling.  She barely opens her eyes nor raise her head.  She cannot speak but mumble an occasional word or two. 

My Grandma was the person who used to make you wash your hands before you ate because she was so meticulous about things being clean and sanitary. My Grandma was a proper lady who would be appalled to have a conversation about pooping.

I wonder if my Grandma knew the fate that was in store for her, would she have taken steps to prevent it. If my Grandma had been given an opportunity to die with dignity, would she have taken it?

I would.

 The experience has been heartbreaking for me.  I struggle with seeing her now because the images of today are over taking my memories of her... I do not want to remember her this way so I do my best to try and remember her how she was.

Watching her pain and the sadness it brings to my family I feel completely certain that if I ever faced a similar situation I would take measures to end my life on my own terms.

Would you?

My question to you is this: when facing a terminal illness, one that will induce great suffering and rob you of the essence that is you, is it a crime to choose to end your life vs face that fate?

I am looking forward to reading your thoughts.


Carpe Diem,

Jesse

www.jessebrisendine.com

www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge