LOL. There's me not mentioning God or religion because I was trying not to get into the whole thorny topic! But as both Renee and zook have firmly brought God in...

I feel the need to ask PLEASE that this doesn't get personal or nasty. By responding to a comment I am in no way attacking someone or passing a judgement on their character. I'm just responding.

I didn't raise the subject of God in my post because I don't believe in one, and i rely on my own strength and the support and care of others to get me through the hard times in life. I've found that more helpful than in my earlier life when i couldn't understand why the conversation with god was so one-sided! I didn't say in my first post that I find it very sad that for years, religion made the whole issue of suicide, already a tragic event, into a crime so heinous that families would never mention the victim again or refer to them in any way. In the army deserters were shot because people believed that fear itself was a crime, and that it was cowardly to give in to it. Now we know about post-traumatic stress disorder, and understand the sheer terror and horror that those poor men endured. Maybe some people are just not as strong as others. Should everyone be judged by the abilities of the strongest and those who can tolerate the most suffering?

Of course life is precious, that's the whole reason we fight on against this thing, and the reason that parents care for their children, and a million other examples. I must say that I honestly don't see how making the unbelievably hard decision to end your own life must be seen as weakness or lack of concern for life - although I would never argue that someone in pain has nothing left to contribute to others, I also think that it surely is up to them to decide whether they want to be there setting that example of stoicism and perseverance. Of course there are many people who suffer from tragedy, illness and disease, and who contribute hugely to life in many ways. They are amazing people, I greatly admire them, and I'm sure their contributions give them strength to continue. But at the moment there is no gentle way out for anyone, and even the Dignitas service is long, drawn-out, heart-breaking and distant. I wonder how many of those living 'in extremis' would consider euthanasia if there were a kinder option that they could legally follow - one where they could say goodbye and have the comfort of family if they wanted it, without the guilt of leaving those families with that stigma of suicide to face, without having to find a way by themselves with no help, and without the fear of leaving their families under investigation by the police.

Don't get me wrong please, I'm not talking about children or young people, or anyone who still has a chance of improvement or recovery or even a cure. I'm only thinking of those who have already spent years suffering, and for whom there is no prospect of anything better. Those who are worn down by years of constant pain and suffering, and who cannot bear to spend another day in a body that they can no longer bear. Those who by being denied death, are condemned to daily torture. A compassionate and loving god would surely understand the desire to end such suffering?

Ah, it is thorny and complex, which of course is why there is no consensus of opinion, and so much debate. We are all entitled to our views

Bram.