The Right To Die

Coronation Street highlights two very important issues; people's right to die, and pancreatic cancer.

Hayley Cropper ended her own life after battle against pancreatic cancer.

The main subject that has opened is 'assisted dying'. Although Hayley is killing herself, the story line has re-opened the case for people who can't take their own lives, and need assistance.

I personally am pro 'assisted dying', but on very strict terms.

If 'assisted dying' was made legal in the UK, I do believe it should be a very strict procedure, and here's how I would propose 'assisted dying' would work:

1. Patient would go to GP, and explain what they wanted.
2. GP would have to inform the police immediately.
3. The patient would be assessed by a psychologist to make sure it was the patients wishes, not that of others.
4. If the psychologist disagree's police and GP are to be notified, especially if the patient then suddenly dies there can be a investigation.
5. If approved, the GP will arrange with patient and family and friends of when, and where.
6. When the time arrises the GP and nurse would be there to do the 'assisting', and pronouncing of the death
7. Police are informed again

It might seem a rather long, and some argue expensive, procedure, however, who is are we to tell someone they are not allowed to die? Especially when they are terminally ill.

We don't know what pain that patient is in, whether it be a physical pain, or mental. How dreadful to be turned down your right to die.