by esmani

Created on: August 26, 2007

Most of us will agree that the best way to die is swiftly without suffering. Certainly, we would like to live long as possible but what if we can't enjoy a quality life.Isn't it easier to let go when we have made peace with the imminent death?And if one should decide that enough is enough, shouldn't we respect that decision, at the very least as a last wish.It is one's basic and personal right, simple as that.We are not talking about mercy killing but an individual's right to stop treatment and continue their natural remaining life in a more satisfying way.

I believe there is never a situation where the patient wants to continue with treatment yet the family wants end it.That would be criminal,in my opinion. I believe it's because the patient is always the first one to accept his mortality than closed ones.Since he is the one suffering the pain, his judgment is more rational.If chances of surviving the sickness itself is bleak, what about the quality
of life afterward?

I think we are all agreeable that it is better to let go after some point.The question is when is the point and who decides it?It is definitely easier to decide on your own life than other's. Can a family as a whole come together and decide to effectively end a loved one's life.I think it is close to impossible.Too much emotions are involved. We are always hoping against the odd. Will our conscience be clear?There will definitely be questions popping out every now and then. Was it the right decision?.It is something you will have to live with forever.The only thing to take the weight off is knowing that it is what the patient would have wanted.So we are back to square one, let the patient have his wish.

Death is a reality we all have to embrace and come to terms with. When the doctors have confirmed that treatment is hopeless, let us accept the patient's will.When you love someone, you let go and make his last moments as beautiful as possible.

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