Update: My Father-in-Law has ended his life [View all]

[brooklynite]

I mentioned back in December that my FIL was planning to end his life under a State "Death with Dignity" Law, and with the assistance of Compassion and Choices. He has now done so.

He was alert and clear-headed through the entire process, and had been given a psychological screen to confirm his soundness of mind. He delayed the process to allow the family to spend time with him during Christmas, and for old friends to visit. The final process involved ordering the medication (prescribed, but requiring a 48 hour waiting period), and deciding on a date when family members could be with him. He had a final dinner (steak, cooked by my wife), and was dressed the next morning in his favorite nightshirt. C&C prepared the drug cocktail while he talked to family members, then presented it to him, informing him that the dose was lethal and irreversible once taken, and asking him if he wanted to proceed. He said yes, drank the cocktail, fell asleep and passed away peacefully. There was the obvious sadness among those with him, but everyone (including his wife) respected his choice of action.

My wife and I are now considering whether to discuss this situation with State officials who are considering a similar Law. We want to respect his privacy, but it's a compelling example of why such laws are important.