I am disheartened to feel the need to write a letter on this issue, but after your recent editorial, I am compelled to do so. I find the introduction of the Dying With Dignity bill, with its buy-in to the culture of death, a sad commentary on life in the 21st century.

To think, in lieu of promoting palliative care, which is generous in its support of those who are dealing with chronic illness, or hospice for those facing death, this bill promotes taking the end of life into our own hands.

I fear for this approach and the ramifications it will undoubtedly have on us as human beings, persons who unfailingly choose expediency over commitment to life’s difficult moments.

Sadly, we know full well that as medical costs soar and dollars become less available, ridding ourselves of those who drain our coffers of much-needed dollars will become all the more attractive. As someone who has dealt with the death of loved ones from neurological diseases, I know firsthand the anguish the person and family endures during this profound time of life. I also know the strength that ensues from engaging in life’s distasteful moments.

Let’s not become a state to which visitors come to kill themselves. Let’s honor life and our state’s oft-quoted phrase: Maine, the way life should be. Let’s keep it that way! The only killing in which we need to engage is of the Death With Dignity bill.

Catherine Gentile

Yarmouth

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