I’m looking for your input.
In the coming weeks, I'll interview a friend whose mother's death was helped by Dignitas, an association that counsels individuals (and loved ones) with end-of-life choices.
My friend lost both of parents in the past two years, the most recent loss, her mother’s, with the help of Dignitas. My friend has generously offered to discuss every aspect of her experience as a loved participating in an assisted suicide setting.
You may be familiar with terms like end-of-life body autonomy, accompanied suicide, or assisted suicide. You may have also heard author Amy Bloom on Fresh Air with Terry Gross or on This American Life with Ira Glass, discussing her experience with Dignatas during her husband’s accompanied suicide following his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. You can read the transcript of Bloom’s This American Life segment here.
Here’s where you come in
In advance of my interview, please send me your questions, concerns, and views about assisted suicide / accompanied suicide / end-of-life body autonomy.
What do you want to ask someone who’s been through this process? Would you ever consider it for yourself? Would you support a loved one who wanted to die with the help of an organization like Dignitas? What kinds of concerns would you have? What are you most interested in learning about how the process works / feels / looks?
This is your opportunity to hear from someone who’s recently gone through the experience of supporting a loved one’s desire to maintain end-of-life body autonomy.
If you don’t want to leave a public comment in this newsletter, feel free to message me directly and privately here.
I look forward to hearing your inquiries.
Sincerely,
Christine
FROM The Dignitas Website:
“Within the limits of the possibilities available to the association, Dignitas counsels its members and also non-members in regard to all end-of-life issues and in difficult circumstances of life.”
“Dignitas is a militant self-determination, autonomy and dignity help-to-live and right-to-die association, and fights internationally for “the last human right” on a legal and political level. Members have access to the services of Dignitas and show their solidarity with others who care for freedom of choice in life and at the end of life.”
Suicide and suicide-attempt prevention
“The predominant number of suicide attempts fails – with severe consequences. Also, suicide is still a taboo. Dignitas engages in education, clarification of facts, and prophylaxis of suicide-attempts.”
WORKING LIST OF RESOURCES
Compassion & Choices (Illinois)
https://www.compassionandchoices.org/in-your-state/illinois/oliver-ruff
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please dial the 988 Lifeline.
The Lifeline provides mental health professionals and crisis centers in the Lifeline network with innovative best practices and resources in the field of suicide prevention and mental health. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Remember, your call is confidential and free.
Submit Your Questions About End-Of-Life Autonomy (aka Assisted Suicide)