Law Permits Little Dignity in Dying

I read with considerable interest Dr. Arnold Beisser’s thought-provoking article “Life, Death and Dignity” (April 8).

Before vacationing recently in Australia, I updated my will, adding a living will of my own design. But I became completely frustrated when my attorney explained that my wishes were contrary to California law. I wanted a directive that precluded institution of any life support system, including feeding, without my express, conscious, written consent.

But no. The best I could do was direct that only upon the medical opinion of at least two physicians that I was terminal could life support systems be withdrawn. In other words, any condition I may sustain, including a vegetative state, that is not considered terminal if treated with all available “necessary” medications and/or life support systems, must be used to continue my life . . . and in the process, denying my family any proceeds of my modest estate, and, when that is gone, forcing the tremendous costs of care upon the taxpayers who are already supporting a grossly overburdened and financially stressed public health care system.

I have no all-encompassing answers that will solve the manifold questions that arise related to whether or not to continue a life. I only wish it was solely within my purview to determine my fate . . . and not, as current law dictates, left instead to physicians and the courts to decide. Fortunately, physicians in some arenas are beginning to address the issue of whether a meaningful life is being extended . . . or whether the inexorable process of dying is being prolonged.

NEIL J. BOURQUIN, Diamond Bar