RECENTLY I attended the launch of the North Yorkshire and the Humber Dignity in Dying group in York.

Sarah Wootton, the CEO of Dignity in Dying and Compassion in Dying, brought us up to speed on Lord Falconer’s assisted dying bill.

A YouGov poll last year revealed that 76 per cent of the public are now in favour of a change in the law, so that on the recommendation of two doctors, terminally ill patients suffering unbearably, with only six months or less to live and being of sound mind, could be provided with the appropriate medication to take themselves to end their lives.

How can we stand by and see loved ones suffering? Don’t we all yearn for a peaceful death? With proper safeguards, it is time for the UK to move forward.

We welcome Celia Kitzinger’s “Before I Die” week in York from May 12 to 18, considering many aspects of death and dying.

Personally I want to die as I’ve lived, taking responsibility for my living and my dying. I want to die peacefully and with dignity. Don’t you?

The next meeting of our Dignity in Dying group will be on June 7. Phone Rachel on 01904 488122, Sue on 01904 488870 or Anne on 01482 633167 for more information.

Sue Lister, Dunnington, York.