I've always been a little puzzled by Steven Fletcher's championing of doctor-assisted suicide. He would actually make an excellent poster-boy for the other side of the argument. Despite what must have been huge challenges after becoming quadriplegic early in life, he forged an exceptionally successful political career and a productive life. However, had assisted suicide been available at the time of his accident it is highly likely that, in the depths of suffering and depression, he'd have requested it. And he'd have missed the experience of overcoming his challenges and achieving the success that followed.
So, why does he favour doctor-assisted suicide? Does he regret having lived his life? It's hard to imagine, but maybe we'll see a year from now whether or not he exercises his new right. Another, more likely possibility is that he's contemplating that eventually, perhaps many years from now, he'll want to exercise his right. But, has he considered whether it's worth it given that from now on it is far less likely that there will be any more Steven Fletchers? Not to mention all the other down-side risks:
Barbara Kay: Euthanasia so accepted, doctors must now justify prolonging a lifeEzra Levant:
Barbara Kay: Suffering people just want an end to their pain
Father Raymond de Souza: Our euthanasia point of no return
Andrew Coyne: Crossing the Rubicon, Supreme Court seems eerily complacent
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