Good evening. A top story from today's news revealed that a Bradford woman suffering from multiple sclerosis lost her High Court case to prevent her husband from prosecution if he assisted with her suicide. I realise that this is not a Preston story but it should resonate with people nationally.
Ms Debbie Purdy does want to risk her husband facing a jail sentence if he helps her die by taking her to a Swiss clinic. Omar Puente could face up to 14 years in prison on his return to Britain if he accompanies his wife.
Does this sound fair? Surely a woman suffering in pain should be allowed to have her husband by her deathbed without having to worry about him being condemned by British law? I understood the moral uncertainties that surround assisted suicide but in this particular case, the husband's involvement should be exempt from punishment. Ms Purdy needs her husband's support to end her suffering. He should not become a criminal because of his altruistic actions.
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2 comments:
It is ridiculous that this lady has to spend the last part of her life in uncertainty and fearing that the man she loves will be sent to prison for holding her hand as she dies in peace.
The DPP have said it is down to parliament now. The whole issuie of assisted suicide needs some serious clarification so that people know exactly where they stand.
What does everyone else think?
I agree, the law needs to be far clearer. The government tends to shy away from controversial issues and given the unpopularity of the Labour party at the moment I doubt it will make this issue a priority.
Choosing to end your life due to terminal illness and/or disability is a decision people do not take lightly. It is especially stressful and traumatic for the families that are left behind, even if they agree with their loved ones decision.
Not knowing if they were to face prosecution on their return to Britain is ridiculous. People have a right to know what the law states and for this not to be cleared up is plain cowardice.
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