My body – my choice

I have decided that I would be prepared to end my life by my own hand under certain circumstances, eg. if I became terminally ill with a wasting disease. Here’s why:

- Having watched my father, a great sportsman, spend the last years of his life in a wheelchair and bedridden, I do not want to do the same;

- I do not want to go into a retirement home;

- I do not want to be a millstone for my wife or family;

- I do not want money/resources spent on me that could go on a young life.

I could add other reasons but have struggled to understand why some people fail to understand that it is my life and I should have the right to determine, if necessary, my demise.

My family is aware of my thinking and accepts my right to decide for myself.

I do wish this subject was more openly discussed (well done, Connexion) and that one could have access to the self-administered system available in Switzerland.

Alan KERR, by email

I have recently returned to France, following a publicity tour for the book Time to Go about assisted dying. Published by Mensch, it is written by my son.

I appeared with him live in media coverage, including live TV, and was most interested in your Jacqueline Jencquel article.

I too would like to plan the way and the time that I die. Why ever not? After all, whose body is it?

But 76 is a tad early these days. There is plenty to be done to help people who ask to die to escape pain.

Join my campaign.

I shall be 90 this year but there is much to do.

Susie VEREKER by email

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