The shooting at the hospital in Daytona Beach sparked discussions regarding dying-related issues. Tonight, WESH 2’s Amanda Dukes spoke with a man who wants to persuade Florida legislators to pass a new law. Ellen Gilland, 76, and her husband Jerry Gilland, 77, allegedly had a deal that if her husband’s terminal illness got any worse, she would kill him and then commit suicide.
Although he doesn’t know the specifics of the Gillands’ situation, Florida Death with Dignity founder and president Tony Ray says he believes the state needs a “medical help in dying law.” “I don’t know their circumstances, but if they are competent to pick medication to end their life peacefully, following their own beliefs and values, and that’s really what these laws are about — personal choice, personal decision,” Ray added.
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How Does the Proposed Legislation Help Terminally Ill Adults?
According to Ray, his foundation intends to introduce the Florida End-of-Life Options Act during the ensuing legislative session. He argues that it gives an adult with terminal illnesses a way to avoid needless suffering in the latter stages of life. “A terminally sick adult with a prognosis of six months or less must be the patient. To make healthcare decisions, a person must be of sound mind.
Two doctors have verified the diagnosis and mental health, which is crucial. They must be capable of giving themselves the medication, “explained Ray. Ten states, plus the District of Columbia, currently have laws governing medical aid in dying, but Florida does not.
The proposed rule presently has a Senate sponsor in Florida but not a House sponsor. According to Ray, the best action for families dealing with a hurting loved one is to ask for assistance. Ray explained that both hospice and palliative care professionals have counselors available to them who may help them work through these issues.
Please visit lakecountyfloridanews.com if you are interested in obtaining background information or answers to any questions you have posed about this topic.
