I would wish to be provided with medication with which to…
““I would wish to be provided with medication with which to end my life at the time of my choosing. There may be considerable pain that factors into my decision, or it may be that I fear loss of my ability to lead what to my mind is a meaningful life. If I’m unable to feed myself, to toilet myself, to stand or walk on my own, to make rational choices, I want my family to understand that it’s time for me to go—that it’s my decision for myself and no one else’s. I respect the arguments made by Dr. Byock and those who believe that life should end naturally. However, I’ve known of too many instances where “naturally” meant after years of suffering, not only for the individual but for the family. And I do believe the family must be taken into account. I wouldn’t wish to put my family through the extended ordeal of my dying. When the time comes to end my life, I will give thanks for all I have had, for all I have been given, and hope to go peacefully, with the help of a physician. On November 5, 2014, barely five months after John died, Patricia Harrison, president and CEO of””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker expresses a desire for physician‑assisted death when life loses meaning, emphasizing autonomy, suffering, and family impact.
In simple terms: Seek control over end‑of‑life when suffering outweighs meaning.
Key Takeaway
Choose dignified death when life loses purpose.
Themes
death
autonomy
suffering
family
meaning
ethical dilemma
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
Death:1
Dying:1
Family:1
Life:0
Meaningful life:1
Time:0
End My Life:1
End Life:1
Life End:0
End Naturally:0
Suffering Individual:1
When to use this quote
- end‑of‑life care
- palliative decisions
- legal debates
Key Concepts
ethics
medical law
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a meaningful life?
- How should families respond?
A Different Perspective
Societal views may limit options.