Palliative Care

I went to a meeting where one of the speakers was the head of palliative care for Victoria General hospital here in Victoria BC. He told us that there are 8 patients waiting for every palliative bed. Most parts of Canada do not offer palliative care. So obviously, it is an option you cannot count on.

He also said that nearly all patients beg to die about two days before they croak. These requests are ignored. Instead they sedate the patients without their permission. He seemed to think this was vastly preferable to letting the patient chose his own time of death. He also said that about 80% of his staff agree with him. In contrast, a poll of the general public (including Catholics) shows 80% of people support the option of assisted suicide.

He suggested that in future, you will have to choose either assisted suicide or palliative care. You will not be able to change your mind.

~ Roedy (1948-02-04 age:70)