Re “A right to die">May 18): Upon receiving a terminal illness diagnosis, one of my first thoughts was, “Thank goodness California has a medical aid in dying option.” Hopefully I’m far from being able to use it (it requires diagnosis of less than six months to live), but it is a great relief for me to know this option is available. The state has a well-written law with safeguards to protect against possible misuse, and data show no abuse.
When g the law, Gov. Jerry Brown wrote, “I do not know what I would do if I were dying in prolonged and excruciating pain. I am certain, however, that it would be a comfort to be able to consider the options afforded by this bill. And I wouldn’t deny that right to others.” This law expires in 2031 unless we make it a permanent right, and I therefore urge of Senate Bill 403.
— Debbie Malcarne, Pacific Beach
