In recent months, issues surrounding terminal illness and choice at the end of life have risen to great prominence both in the media and among lawmakers. When discussing and writing about these issues, many erroneously use the term “assisted suicide” to describe the medical practice of aid in dying, currently authorized in Oregon, Montana, Washington, New Mexico, and Vermont. Being sure to use the right terminology is vital to this important debate.
When terminally ill people ask their doctors for an aid-in-dying prescription, they can quiet their fears about the dying process and focus on what’s left of life. It is an open, empowering and hopeful decision.
Aid in dying is taking control of death, not giving up on life. It’s not suicide.
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