I didn't reply to the earlier thread about the injured deer hunter who "chose" to have his breathing tube removed; in fact, I was so upset I deleted the whole discussion.
After thinking about it for a while I am still extremely emotional, going between empathy and rage. I felt I had to reply, if only for my own relief through venting. While we don't know every detail of the story, I still feel STRONGLY that allowing this man to make this decision while medically impaired is the equivalent of giving a handgun to someone who is suicidal. "So, your life sucks right now and you want to end it? Well, it IS your decision, after all. Here's a revolver. Be sure to aim upward, and here are some hollow-point bullets to help you succeed. Thanks for easing the 'burden' on your family and our healthcare system." This is insane! No one would condone a healthcare provider sanctioning such an action, but they are ok with this?! Like so many of you on this list, I contemplated whether I wanted to live after becoming a quadriplegic. Had somebody asked me to make life decisions at that moment, I doubt I'd be here today. While we know life with quadriplegia is difficult, it can also be wonderful. I've had so many blessings and amazing times that I am thankful for every day I'm here. I want to live a lot longer. My real anger is reserved for the medical staff that allowed this hasty decision to be made under clear duress, and for his family members who viewed him as damaged beyond saving. I know I can't question their motives--surely they thought the were doing good by him--but medical professionals, including the nurse-sister, should have had better judgement. If there were ANY narcotics or mind-altering medications in his system how could his thought process be considered lucid? The news account states he wasn't even able to speak! In the end this perpetuates society's view that people with disabilities are "damaged goods"-- disposable commodities. How many times have we heard "I'd rather be dead than in a wheelchair"? While his accident was horrible, snuffing his life was the real tragedy here. What a shame. Don. http://www.recorder.com/news/nation/world/9197116-95/paralyzed-deer-hunter-chooses-to-end-life-support
