Voluntary Assisted Dying – the Dark Side
Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) can be a tricky topic to tackle. This is not an information piece. For that please seek out the laws in your state as each state has different laws. This is an opinion piece.
VAD offers a choice to end one’s life with conscious dignity after a number of conditions have been confirmed by medical professionals. Up until recent years this choice did not exist and people suffering terminal and debilitating medical conditions often lived the end of their lives with little, if any, quality of life.
Enter VAD and the tables are turned. So, dark side? How so?
The decision to end one’s life is not always warmly welcomed by the family. Not from a place of malice but of difficulty accepting that they will lose their loved one. Whilst they can know in their head that a VAD decision is “for the best” for their loved one, this doesn’t always translate into a happy acceptance. That emotional bridge can be difficult to cross. It can throw up challenges to the relationship where both parties are grappling with such a sensitive topic.
As well as this, some faiths are not accepting of VAD as an option. This can bring about discord and disagreement. What set out to be a peaceful passing can turn into a time of tension and turmoil.
As a funeral celebrant I can only encourage families in this position to seek support and counselling if they feel it could benefit them. Achieving harmony is a blessing for all concerned. Furthermore, I cast absolutely no judgement, and I respect the choice that people make when going down the VAD path. It is a brave choice. A choice to be honoured.
If you or somebody close to you is considering VAD and you wish to discuss the funeral service or the writing of the eulogy, please reach out on
magda@withheart.com.au or 0422670716 and I’d be happy to chat – no obligation, no cost.