Representative/Doctor in opposition
2 patients in hospice that were not terminally ill. After 2 months they returned home and lived for many years after that. 15% in Waterford(?) were let out of hospice and sent to other care.
People would talk about what it does to the inheritance, and how much they’re losing daily by sustaining care.
His wife is now a cancer survivor due to treatment 1.5years ago. 10 years ago, she’d probably be dead.
Everyday today, a cure is found for new diseases. Some people who committed suicide a cure is found a month later for what they’re
Barry Williams (former lobbyist)
FOR it has Parkinsons disease
the Bill does not include me, but I hope that one day it will be.
Rep Johnson question:
Did you see there might be added protections that we can put in there, or do you think it’s fine the way it is.
–One of the things the CT legislature is know for is studying the issue and implementing the best from other states.
Senator Kane:
When I first came into the hearing, a Senator Holden-Winfield said he can’t see the slippery slope.
Can you see the slippery slope as a lobbyist and as one asking for it to be expanded?
–I think it’s (loss for words). Any time you pass legislation it’s a slippery slope somewhat.
Senator Kane:
I do see how there is a slippery slope given this testimony.
Senator Michael Mclachlan
Stand in Firm opposition.
“this legislation would promote a culture of assisted suicide and tell our citizens that suicide is an answer to life’s hardships.”
Suicide in all circumstances is a tragedy.
Does not have sufficient safeguards. No safeguard to ensure it was done voluntarily.
In states where AS has been approved, suicide rates have increased.
Oregon suicide rate is 41% higher than National Average.
Is a healthcare facility allowed to opt out (rhetorical question, no)
Polls in MA showed residents supported AS, but when brought to ballot, it was turned down.
Rep Betts question:
Feel free not to answer this “I was struck by someone who had Lou Gehrig’s disease” and listening to that individual it was unpleasant. A certain amount of empathy for those with a terminal illness. How do we help individuals under those circumstances.
–I would agree it’s a very difficult life experience. And I can attest to those who have witnessed to me living through unbearable life circumstances. Aggressive pancreatic cancer survivor 13 years later still living, when diagnosis was “fait accompli” (certain death).
Regardless of life challenges ahead, we are surrounded by individuals who care about us and want to see us flourish.
Rep Sayers:
Thank you for your comment on knowing a suicide victim. It has a long term effect on the individual. One of my concerns is long term effect on the family. Hospices are against this. It’s contrary to the core elements of hospice. I would appreciate more comment on that.
–important point on those left behind. it’s a tragedy not just for the individual but for all those left behind. Those who have witnessed suicide and assisted suicide suffer PTSD. And I can vouch for that. (choked up).