I promised my best friend to help push her over the line if her pains become unbearable and if she does not wish to live on. She has cancer, had 200 operations and is 39 yrs old.
So far, I'm the only one she can freely talk about death to - IMO a very important topic - sadly a taboo for a lot of people.
She had been in a coma for 3x times now, and is a symbol of life for me, as I have never seen a person enjoy life more than she does. But - if she will ask me, I will fulfill my promise - as I think, this is what friendship is for: stand by each other in every situation. Each day she wishes to live is a gift for me (and she's enjoying to plan her new garden now <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/winkwink.gif" alt="" /> ) - but I will come if she calls. I owe this to her, she does not wish to become a whimpering bundle and lose her dignity. SHE chooses, I follow. I have never seen/met a more courageous and brave person than she is. I do not care for laws in this case. Kiya
Edit in an "easier" case for some - very, very hard for me => I have had over 30 cats and took care of them until they died. The vet and I did everything as long as they wanted to live, regardless of costs, as some were chronically ill for several years. But if one does not wish to live any longer (and believe me, I know - have often shocked my Doc with this "knowledge") I accompany them on their last way - up to the end and don't leave them. Why? Because loving and taking care of them involves this responsibility as well IMO: helping them to cross the line of they wish to. THEY choose, I follow.
