The following excerpt is from the op-ed, As a disabled person, autonomy over my healthcare is paramount, by David Mills that first appeared in The News Journal on February 18, 2022.
I am a retired computer analyst who has lived with spinocerebellar ataxia, a rare spinal and brain degenerative disorder, for 40 years. It impairs my speech, balance, fine motor skills and coordination. I need a powered wheelchair and a nursing assistant.
I live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I swim regularly if the pool has an Americans with Disability Act pool lift, and I have competed in the Senior Olympics. Right now, my situation is not terminal, but there is no known effective treatment or cure for spinocerebellar degenerative disorder, and it is often fatal. The end of my life could involve great suffering.
If my condition becomes terminal, I want the option of medical aid in dying to gently end my suffering if it becomes intolerable. A bill to allow medical aid in dying in Delaware, the Ron Silverio/Heather Block Delaware End of Life Options Act — HB 140, is now before the Delaware legislature.
Nothing advances our common cause of improving end-of-life care like real stories. Inspire others and drive change by sharing your story today.
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