A couple seeking to end their lives together in a synchronized suicide pod will have their final moments documented on camera.
Peter and Christine Scott intend to travel to Switzerland to utilize the controversial pod as their chosen method of dying.
They are the first British pair to opt for this form of assisted dying after Christine was diagnosed with vascular dementia, an incurable condition affecting around 150,000 individuals in the UK, where the couple resides.
Dr. Philip Nitschke, the founder of Exit International, designed the pods and asserts that it is a “fundamental human right of every adult of sound mind to be able to plan for the end of their life in a way that is reliable, peaceful & at a time of their choosing.”
Discussing their choice to go abroad for assisted dying, Peter mentioned that their ages played a significant role in their decision.
“We have had long, happy, healthy, fulfilled lives but here we are in old age and it does not do nice things to you,” Peter shared with the Daily Mail.
Referring to Christine’s dementia diagnosis, he added, “The idea of watching the slow degradation of Chris’s mental abilities in parallel to my own physical decline is horrific to me.
“Obviously I would care for her to the point I could not, but she has nursed enough people with dementia during her career to be adamant she wants to remain in control of herself and her life.
“Assisted dying gives her that opportunity and I would not want to go on living without her.”
Adding to the controversy surrounding the suicide pods, it appears those who choose this method will have their deaths recorded on video.
The footage will be provided to a coroner as evidence of their passing.
While assisted dying is legal in some U.S. states, it remains illegal in England, carrying the risk of criminal prosecution and a prison sentence of up to 14 years.
However, this may soon change.
According to a report today (September 13), a citizens’ jury consisting of 28 public members concluded that individuals with terminal illnesses who can make informed decisions about assisted dying should have legal access to both physician-assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia, as reported by Sky News.
Although the jury lacks legal authority, it contributes to the mounting body of evidence that many British citizens believe it should be legalized.
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties or a mental health crisis, assistance is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.