Voluntary assisted dying is an issue that deeply affects me personally, as my father, stricken with late-stage Parkinson’s Disease, chose to end his life voluntarily to save himself and his children from the burden of continued suffering.

After my father’s death, I committed to advocating for the rights of all to choose a dignified end of life. I will use this platform, among others, to increase awareness, information, and education regarding an issue that transcends national borders, cultural boundaries, and legal, medical, religious, and moral lines. My goal is to eliminate forever the stigma associated with the practice of voluntary assisted dying.

To start off, my argument for assisted dying is based on the profound virtues and benefits to society the practice offers by prioritizing individual autonomy and compassionate care for those enduring unbearable suffering. It empowers patients with terminal illnesses or irreversible conditions to exercise control over their own lives and death, fostering dignity in what can be an immensely painful and challenging journey. By providing a legal and regulated framework for dying with dignity, society acknowledges the complex realities of suffering, allowing healthcare professionals to offer a humane option for relief. This practice can also alleviate the emotional and financial burdens placed on families and healthcare systems, enabling a shift in focus toward palliative care and support for those who choose to explore this option. Ultimately, assisted dying respects personal choice and fosters a culture of empathy and understanding, affirming the value of life even in its most challenging moments—at its conclusion.