Dame Esther Rantzen, the renowned broadcaster and founder of Childline, has revealed that her stage four lung cancer diagnosis will prevent her from attending the upcoming Westminster debate on assisted dying. The 83-year-old had hoped to participate in the event next Monday, but her health has made it impossible. Rantzen has been contemplating traveling to Dignitas in Switzerland for an assisted death, but she is concerned about the potential legal consequences for her family under current laws. She believes that individuals should have the right to make decisions about their own lives and that the majority of the public supports assisted dying as a personal choice. Despite her absence, Rantzen stated that she will be closely following the debate, as it will impact her decision regarding Dignitas if necessary. The debate marks a significant moment, as it will be the first time MPs have discussed assisted dying in almost two years. It comes after the Scottish Parliament published legislation to introduce assisted dying for terminally ill patients, citing compelling evidence in favor of the move. Liam McArthur, the MSP behind the legislation, expressed confidence in its passage, emphasizing the inclusion of robust safeguards. However, opponents of the legislation, including the Bishop of Paisley, John Keenan, have expressed concerns that it could devalue the lives of the ill and disabled. With a vote on the proposals expected later this year, it will be the third time MSPs have considered the issue, with two previous attempts to change the law having been overwhelmingly defeated. Similar debates on assisted dying are also expected in Jersey and the Isle of Man in the coming months.
Dame Esther Rantzen Too Ill to Attend Assisted Dying Debate
