Turning the tide against euthanasia
>> Friday, October 16, 2009 –
Loving people
I recently watched Turning the Tide, a documentary about euthanasia.
I appreciated the interviews with people who were disabled, suffering from chronic pain, or caring for vulnerable people. The documentary presented the classic arguments against euthanasia, including the idea that we need to help people to feel they have dignity and worth. After watching this, I felt that we need to do more for those who are living in aged care facilities. Many of these people feel they do not have worth because they do not enjoy caring relationships.
Occasionally, not often enough, I go to visit my step grandmother in a home for elderly and disabled people about 20 minutes from where we live. She seems to enjoy a good life there despite her pain. She has lots of friends, a lovely room, and caring staff. On my last two trips I've also taken the time to visit a man from our church who suffers from MS.
Here Elnathan is pictured with his step great-grandma. Babies are a wonderful asset when visiting an aged care hostel! Maybe we can contribute a small amount toward valuing those members of our society who are vulnerable. The best argument against euthanasia is suffering people who are loved, content, and cared for in their pain.
I agree!
I still miss my maternal Grandmother, who spent her final years in the "high-care" section of a Christian nursing home. We were very close, and I visited her nearly every Sunday afternoon, once she had moved up to our area.
Ma had Parkinsons Disease, and in her latter years, would drool, couldn't swallow properly, and had a feeding tube inserted in
her tummy.
Even though it was hard seeing her progress from being an active social woman, to a head on a pillow in a bed; I felt so priveledged to have her and to pray with her, sing hymns to her, and just LOVE her while we had her. We witnessed the outward woman wasting away but her spirit being renewed as she came closer to Heaven.
The night she passed on 7 years ago, she had a special time of prayer with her Pastor, as was surrounded by caring Christian workers as she departed this life. She lived and died with dignity.
Claire
What a lovely testimony! Thanks for sharing - I'm encouraged.
Sherrin,
An excellent post! You are very right. I worked as an aide in both a skilled (high need) nursing home and an assisted living nursing home. I tried to care for each of the people on my assignment the way I would want to be cared for. I made sure that each one were dressed, clean and neat, their beds and rooms were straightened and clean. I took time to talk with them and listen to them. Dignity was very important. Those who were able to care for themselves, enjoyed encouraging conversation. Those who were unable to care for themselves, were grateful for the time and care that I gave them. It was a precious time of serving for me.
Thanks for sharing.