Esther Rantzen, a well-known television personality, has made a heartfelt plea to Members of Parliament to vote on the legalization of assisted dying. Rantzen, who is battling stage 4 lung cancer, emphasized the importance of this issue, stating that the public is deeply concerned about it. She highlighted the fact that if the legislation does not pass now, it may not be debated again for another decade.
The upcoming vote in Westminster will determine whether England and Wales will join other jurisdictions in legalizing assisted dying. Currently, 10 US states, New Zealand, Canada, six European countries, and most of Australia have already legalized assisted dying. Scotland, the Isle of Man, and Jersey are expected to follow suit in the coming years.
Rantzen, in a letter to all 650 MPs, urged them to participate in the debate and vote according to their conscience. She emphasized that while the bill will not apply to her, she is fortunate to have the option of an assisted death at Dignitas in Switzerland. However, many terminally ill individuals in the UK cannot afford the cost of such a procedure, leaving them to suffer against their wishes.
The parliamentary committee’s inquiry found that in jurisdictions where assisted dying is legal, it has not undermined palliative care but has, in fact, strengthened it. Rantzen stressed that despite the best possible palliative care, some terminally ill individuals continue to suffer, highlighting the urgent need for a change in the law.
Rantzen’s daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, will be present at the debate on her mother’s behalf. Wilcox shared that her mother is still undergoing cancer treatment and expressed the physical and emotional toll that campaigning for assisted dying has taken on her mother. Wilcox acknowledged her mother’s bravery in bringing this issue to the forefront of public discourse, noting that many other individuals have also been instrumental in advocating for change.
Sarah Wootton, the chief executive of Dignity in Dying, commended Rantzen for her efforts in raising awareness about the need for compassionate end-of-life care. She called on MPs to vote in favor of assisted dying, emphasizing the importance of choice, compassion, and dignity for individuals facing terminal illnesses.
As the debate in Westminster approaches, the outcome remains uncertain, with many MPs still undecided. The decision they make will have a profound impact on the lives of terminally ill individuals and their families. The voices of those who are suffering and in need of compassion must be heard, and the time for change is now.
