The loss of respect for human life has now reached the other
end of the age spectrum, and arguments in favor of euthanasia
have become commonplace.
Euthanasia proponents say they want to eliminate suffering by
"allowing" the terminally ill to "die with dignity."
Unfortunately, however, the "terminally ill" have not been the
only ones to fall victim to their misplaced compassion.
Incidents of nonvoluntary euthanasia (ending the life of someone
who is incompetent to request it) and even involuntary
euthanasia (ending the life of someone who clearly wants to
live) have become disturbingly frequent. Efforts to legalize
assisted suicide (helping someone to take their own life) are
meeting with success in many areas.
If a young healthy person expresses a desire to die, this is
recognized as depression and immediate assistance is given. An
elderly person, or someone with a disability, who expresses the
same wish should be treated with the same respect. To do
otherwise is not compassion, but discrimination.
Important Comments
If you
were to enter a hospital or nursing care facility today, you
will be asked whether you have signed an advance directive
or a "living will." An advance directive can protect you in
the event you are unable to make health care decisions for
any reason.
The term
"living will" often refers to a document that states that
you DO NOT want to receive lifesaving medical care. If you
sign such a document, you may be deprived of needed medical
care (including food and water) in the event you
become temporarily or permanently incapacitated.
The
Maryland Advance Directive Will to Live Form is a pro-life
alternative to a living will. It provides for a "general
presumption for life" and enables you to make specific
instructions regarding treatment that may be withdrawn in
the event your death is imminent.
The link
above will allow you do download a PDF of the document. You
may also request a printed copy from Maryland Right to Life
by calling (410) 269-6397 or e-mailing your request to
info@mdrtl.org.