I am writing in support of the proposed bills patient-directed dying legislation, H.44 and S.63. I hope that Legislators will give the people of Vermont an opportunity to make a choice in how a patient wishes to die with dignity. Pain is not the only kind of suffering experienced by a dying patient. Suffering takes many forms that life is no longer meaningful and or control of bodily functions is lost. Knowing that there's a way out can help such a person to make the best use of his/her remaining time merely by relieving concern about the last few days or hours of his or her own life.

I respect the rights and opinions of those who have moral or religious philosophies that cause them to oppose patient-directed dying . But I do not feel that they have the right to limit the choices available to others at the end of their lives.

I was appalled at some of the TV advertisements, recently aired, opposing death with dignity legislation. Some of their contents were insulting to the intelligence/ heart of humanity of how this bill would take advantage of disabled or sick people.

I hope that you will read the bills. I hope you will then be a more informed reader and reflect if the intent of these bills takes away any of your personal freedoms of a choice to die with dignity. Please contact your legislators.
ELAINE SINCLAIR-FOWLER
South Hero