Dear Editor:
Despite your editorial to the contrary (Suffer No More, Oct. 13), I am overjoyed at the Carter appeal judgment that will protect senior citizens and vulnerable adults from the trauma of knowing that euthanasia and assisted suicide are sanctioned in law.
Senior citizens continue to contribute greatly to society. They often financially assist their children who are struggling, they provide child care for grandchildren, are available for unexpected needs and bring the family together for special celebrations. Grandchildren learn compassion and tenderness for the elderly through the grandparents they love. When the end of life comes, though the burden may be great, the humanity of the children and grandchildren grows in proportion to the difficulties and life takes on an unexpected sweetness. No one loses dignity but everyone gains love.
We are far too quick to want to get rid of our contradictions and sufferings, yet it is in these that our character is carved.
Barbara Stuart
North Vancouver