Re: Aug. 28 news story.
Kudos to Jennifer Brown and The Denver Post for looking at the critical language around medical aid in dying. The measure, while its legality is relatively new, is an important way for patients, families and doctors to have a more open dialogue about health care at the end of life.
Sometimes language can overshadow what is important: personal freedom to choose a peaceful passing. We still hear stories of heartbreaking situations where the promised peaceful, pain-free death did not happen. I watched my mother and beloved mother-in-law each die after unbearable suffering. I want the peace of mind that comes from knowing I have an option to consider medical aid in dying. That’s not suicide; that’s me exercising my right to health care that aligns with my faith, my values and my wishes.
Advances in medicine have for decades required advances in dialogue. When we learn more about issues, including medicine, our terminology often changes too. The End-of-Life Options Act will allow terminally ill, adult Coloradans their own choices in end-of-life care. Voters deserve to know about the safeguards in the law and how this will improve health care in our state.
Bev Halwa, Boulder
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