Reader's view: Listen to those with disabilities in assisted suicide discussion

Dr. Steven C. Bergeson’s commentary in the Dec. 21 News Tribune (A Doctor’s View: “Legalizing assisted suicide undermines real health care”) eloquently pointed out the slippery-slope issue disability-rights groups have with assisted suicide.
I watched my mother wither, suffer and die from cancer, and the issue was close to our hearts and minds. I get it.
I and others with disabilities have some interesting experiences. Sometimes people seem to think quality of life is compromised, and they say, “If it were me, I’d off myself.”
When talking with folks about assisted suicide, I’m astonished at the low bar for what they feel is unbearable. That view of disability in our society is ingrained and pours over into all aspects of our lives. Those stereotypes cloud opinions and decisions that impact the lives of people with disabilities, especially in health care and insurance.
Dr. Bergeson was right on when he wrote, “There would be no real choice when care is expensive and death is cheap.”
I believe proponents of assisted suicide are compassionate and have a valid point. The issue is more complicated than it appears. People with disabilities are “the canaries in the coal mine.” Listen to them, because you can join us sooner than you think.
John Nousaine
Superior
The writer is director of North Country Independent Living.