Unconditional love is the answer, not assisted suicide

By Dr Rachel Bradley, Director of the Office of Life, Marriage and Family

One of the main arguments that has been advanced by those seeking to legalise euthanasia and assisted suicide has been that there are situations where palliative care is unable to relieve intolerable pain, and that this being the case the only ‘loving’ thing to do is to allow such individuals to end their own lives.

During the parliamentary debate on this issue we heard members speak of particular examples of loved ones who they believe had died in intolerable pain, despite receiving medical care. 

Yet when one reads the literature available on why individuals actually choose euthanasia or assisted suicide the issue of pain is not in the top few answers given.

In the annual report on the operation of the euthanasia laws in the American state of Oregon, the issue of pain has regularly been in the bottom two reasons given by individuals wanting to end their life.

What the literature suggests is that most people seek to access euthanasia out of fear of losing autonomy, physical independence or dignity. This rings true with my experience as a GP and working in palliative care.

I only recall one patient that had pain that we struggled to control, as with good quality palliative care, most physical symptoms can be managed well. There were many though, who voiced fear of not being able to function as they had, or fear of a loss of autonomy and dignity.

However, our dignity as human persons does not come from being able to do things, such as feed or dress ourselves, it comes from what we are. It comes from being made in the image and likeness of God, and being called to communion with God. Our faith tells us that we are precious to God the Father, who loves us with an infinite and unconditional love. What a gift, to be loved unconditionally!

As the euthanasia and assisted suicide laws come into effect in Tasmania in the coming weeks it is important that we help people to understand that when faced with terminal illness they do not lose their inherent dignity. We need to remind them that they are loved and that even up until they take their last breath they can and often do have a profoundly positive impact on the lives of those around them.