A woman with ALS shares her last day after choosing "Medical Aid in Dying"

[@yellowthermos]

Would just like to say kudos to the producers and journalists who created this piece. No fluff, no sensationalism, no "provocative" questions... just a respectful presentation of a story we all will face. Good job.

[@DigbyDooright]

PLEASE, let one of these states be Illinois.

[@brandip77]

My goodness. Her daughter is so loving and brave to accept and support her mother’s decision. I hope she is resting peacefully.

[@kiwigirljacks]

I will never be against this. After seeing my mother screaming in pain and asking to die and I had to beg the nurses to knock her out for the last two days of her life so she was no longer aware of the suffering… this is much more humane! I have ptsd from what I witnessed as I stayed by my mother’s side and slept on a cot beside her for 3 weeks leading to her death.

[@C.D.-tz6sk]

May the Lord comfort you with His peace, hope and love until the day of great reunions. May you be healed from what you suffered. You are a good son.

[@yevodee4024]

@C.D.-tz6sk “May the Lord [...] a good son.” ======================= If your SO-CALLED omnipotent Lord cared, he/she/it could have prevented such pain. And NO, it was NOT any sin of any kind that human beings committed that brought such misery into the world.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

@@kiwigirljacks So Sorry 😞 😔 😟

[@lizardrock510]

I am sorry your mom went through that and I hope you get through the trauma of what you had to experience.

[@Missliaz]

I’m sorry for your pain and the PTSD how are you feeling now? Do you get any support?

[@susangoodwin8067]

My brother died of ALS . He refused all treatment and stopped eating. It was difficult to see him slowly waste away. He was a neurological nurse practitioner and he did not want to prolong his life and have others look after him. ALS is a horrible slow death. I’m glad this lady had the choice to do it her way.

[@dl7281]

Sorry for your loss. I had a young friend pass years ago from this horrible disease. ALS is so unkind.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

@@susangoodwin8067 Yes indeed

[@solangelalebron1348]

You know that by that point in bad health, most of those patients are mentally impaired because of all that medication.

[@anniebananie8140]

I am so sorry about your brother. ALS is such an awful disease. The ALS Association needs more attention so we can help treat and find a cure for this disease.

[@cherylhart5955]

My brother also

[@TeeKing]

Bless this soul, may she travel lightly.

[@sheryllynrivera6391]

Exactly 😔

[@PhyreReighn]

Right?!! - We dont die! Been there & emt brought me back :( Twas Beautiful & Peaceful

[@ayeasten]

this is beautiful 😢❤

[@EB-ok3io]

What beautiful words ❤

[@barbwhitcomb8395]

@@PhyreReighnI’ve been brought back twice in my lifetime!!

[@jodycolin3530]

May she rest in peace. What a lovely lady! 🙏🏼❤️

[@sharifranzel1006]

I came across this by accident and was so moved by the choice given to the patient and the dignity she showed. Given the chance to end on your own terms is beautiful.

[@maybeebuzzy2265]

💖exactly

[@marietighe6328]

You should really do more research on this. Its not as peaceful as you think.

[@PigeonsPie1]

Hello, sharifranzel~ it ought to be this way everywhere, for everyone. Not just for our precious pets. I've never been overly upset to put a pet to permanent sleep, because I knew the facts of the situation, while knowing they suffered ~ or would soon be. Of course I mourned, but to keep ones dying pet around is so selfish.

[@sharifranzel1006]

@@marietighe6328 it’s better than the hell she was living. My husband suffered with various cancers for 10 years. After the last recurrence and having his voice box removed, he told me the drs just extended his misery, not gave him quality of life. The option of going to sleep peacefully is something each person should have. Living without quality is not living. It’s extending the misery.

[@EverythingKitties]

@@PigeonsPie1I agree w you wholeheartedly on this. Vets need to respect pet parent wishes

[@marinaramirez7115]

As a hospice nurse who has had ALS patients, I appreciate this video so very much ❤. May God watch over your family and may you rest easy Barbara

[@justmona9647]

Our Condolences to her family❤ She was an extremely strong woman😍

[@MOAB-UT]

She bailed too soon.

[@dudebud72]

My condolences and I’m glad she shared this with us. This needs to be an option.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

​@@MOAB-UT You would prefer to SUFFER?

[@southernsass2937]

Amen 🙏 I lost my beautiful Sister to this monster ALS. It has Zero mercy 😢

[@Acronym6197]

@@MOAB-UT You can decide what's "too soon" when you're suffering, until then.........................................................

[@dianeleirer9878]

Kudos to CBS Evening News for doing this segment. Our society needs to have more awareness of the needs of terminally ill people.

[@MD1316VW]

I think this a blessing. My son has ALS, can't speak and has a feeding tube. Fortunately, he lives in the State of Washington which offers physican assisted end of life services. Living paralyzed but able to see and hear is not what he wants. He will makes his decision when he is ready. No one is saying this is what people need to do. They are simply offering the option to people who are terminally ill. As I said, it's a blessing.

[@krystaldaniels7940]

I agree with you whole heartedly and I’m so sorry you’re having to experience it first hand. 😢💕

[@karbearmama1973]

So sorry for your son's suffering. May God give you all comfort and reprieve from your struggle.

[@lisamay4376]

I am a respiratory therapist who’s taken care of many ALS patients. Everyone needs to decide what’s right and best for themselves. So much respect for this lady and her family. One more thing, ALS really sucks!

[@UncleDavesKitchen]

I'm a Hospice Rn (pediatric) and agree, so nice to allow others a chance to pass before dissolving in their beds.

[@MOAB-UT]

My friend got it from a Lyme vaccine.

[@lindalavino7567]

​@@MOAB-UT I have never heard of that, could you explain?

[@centaurs2]

Retired respiratory therapist here who took care of many ALS patients on ventilators. It is a horrific disease. This lady is so brave.

[@Liam69400]

Also an RRT and could not agree with you more! If I am ever faced with what this patient did, I will definitely exercise the same right. Anyone that would tell her she is wrong does not understand what humanity is. Her pain is her pain, not experienced by anyone that would judge her.

[@pumpupjam9648]

My deaerst friend got this, she left this world in dignity. She died at home surrounded by her family.

[@daynasafranek7807]

I’m glad she able to have that. I’m sorry for your loss. ❤️

[@latrinemarine826]

Do you know that in Canada, doctors actively pressure disabled individuals who are perceived to be a strain on resources to end their lives? Does that sound dignified to you? It's legal, also. This goes south real fast and I'm not sure you understand the broader societal ramifications of Assisted Suicide.

[@LilyMG9]

As a student I cared for a woman who lost all movement from ALS. She lived on a feeding tube and ventilator. She developed a stage 4 pressure ulcer on her coccyx. One time one of the cleaning ladies passed out and the CNA who was changing the paralyzed woman left her completely uncovered and laid flat to help the cleaning lady. I went and covered her and adjusted the bed because I didn't know how long the CNA would be gone. When she came back 15 minutes later, she scolded me. I said nothing but wished that she could even imagine for a minute what its like to not be able to blink or shiver, let alone cover yourself in a freezing hospital room. It should be a basic human right not to be forced to live a life full of fear due to your own physical dependence on others.

[@lindalavino7567]

❤

[@simonehall-williams3110]

Bless you! Not everyone thinks in that capacity 💕

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

@@LilyMG9 Yes, it's Horrifying

[@Silvermoonscorpion]

As a former CNA, I AM so sorry. That's beyond.... disrespectful and inhumane.. Thank you for covering her up..

[@WilliamBonney-gl2qf]

Lily,you are a wonderful & compassionate soul. 🙏❤️

[@asthecrowflies737]

That is exactly HOW it should be for every person with a terminal illness. THEIR CHOICE. NO ONE else should have anything to say about it or interfere in that person's decision. Better to find comforted in death than be subjected to suffering in life. My grandmother had a terminal heart condition. She was in the hospital, hooked up to EIGHT IVs plus a tube in her chest. She finally said 'ENOUGH ALREADY!!", had all that crap removed, called her brother and told him of her decision. Grandma peacefully died the following day.

[@cattygirl218]

Your words are exactly accurate and should be applied to reproductive rights as well, but here we are in a place where politicians get to make these choices for you.

[@janzeyellie]

I wish this had been an option for my mother who died with ALS. The last six months were misery for her and all she wanted was to die.

[@kallel6588]

Spoken like a quitter

[@110311DONTWANTCHANNE]

people of sound mind have always been able to refuse medical care. the problem is that it often leads to a long period of suffering.

[@donnadalessio3853]

@@kallel6588 notice how it went from killing yourself to killing a baby . What is wrong with these people

[@marvinrosenthal6158]

Humane. Better than dying in a hospital, or nursing home.

[@FreethinkerJourney]

Absolutely!

[@PastorJosh37]

When you're dying, it hardly matters which bed you're laying in. What matters a lot, though, is whether your loved ones are there with you.

[@rose_thee_stallion]

@@PastorJosh37I think that’s what op meant 🙄 her way is better for her. Pastor

[@debbiecooper1677]

amen to that

[@beach-px5dy]

I don’t get why it’s humane for animals when they are suffering but not humane for humans.

[@celestek.2395]

It’s about time. The fact that we can have enough compassion to put sick animals down, but make humans suffer through a horrible painful slow death, has always made me sad, and baffled me. This is far better than getting a phone call that your loved one passed away without you being there. It’s far better than watching someone you love slowly wither away in pain, and having the last memory of them be when they took their final labored breath. Waiting and watching someone you love getting to that point changes your world, and I would never wish that for anyone. 💔

[@Silvermoonscorpion]

This... 💚 I've said this for two decades.. I've was a CNA working in hospice and then two bouts of my own cancer.. I'm ok now but all of that really changed my perspective on death. I personally demand the choice.

[@kristentindle3075]

Rest in peace sweet lady

[@Jerseyboondocks]

Yes we had a dog that was suffering. He could have lived for months like that. There was no quality of life for the poor pooch and there was no hope of it returning.

[@mattsoreng3066]

Incredibly well said.

[@kintsugi-u7v]

Right!! Thank you. This is true compassion. Not making someone suffer in their final days. We are blessed in this day and age to have this option. Let's use it. It's not about devaluing life. It's about reducing suffering. If someone doesn't want to use it, that's valid, too. No pressure. Just have the option if you want it. I'm not even sure what I will do if/when I get diagnosed with a terminal illness, but it would be comforting to know I don't have to suffer.

[@lupemorales8494]

My compadre died from ALS. It’s terrible what it did to him. To the family. He called me one day at 3:00am, asking me to witness his wishes to be taken off any help to keep him alive anymore. I saw him deteriorating for two years. This fun and vibrant man, could barely speak and could not use his body anymore. I know he is in a better place. I would not want to live like that. Have your wishes and last will and testament in place. It is so important. Blessings

[@maureenhopkins430]

My dear friend had a neurological disorder that was a mystery to the many doctors that examined her. They tried many things to help alleviate her symptoms. She had so many different medical problems and was in constant pain. She lived in NYC and in spite of having access to the greatest doctors possible, no one could help her. She made the decision, last March, to apply to a facility in Switzerland that assists patients in ending their lives. She needed to provide her medical information showing that she had a terminal illness and was suffering. In September she flew to Switzerland and ended her life. My heart broke for her, especially since she was alone. I spoke with her twice in the hours before she died. I was the last person to speak with her, other than the medical staff. She was at peace and was happy to be ending her suffering. I miss her terribly 😢

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

@@maureenhopkins430 Praise God. Most ppl can't afford that. To have an escort the entire way. I dont

[@Missliaz]

Wow I’m sorry for your loss sending hugs 🫂 can’t imagine having a last conversation with someone 😢❤

[@maureenhopkins430]

@@jeanettelebarron3306 she didn’t have an escort. She traveled alone and went to the facility alone. The only people present when she passed were the employees of the company. She was fortunate to have been able to afford to do this. She wasn’t rich. I know she would have given it all away if it meant that she would be healthy.

[@maureenhopkins430]

@@Missliaz it was bittersweet. I was heartbroken in anticipation of her death, but she was so full of peace that I couldn’t help but feel peace too. I sent her a text which she answered, just before she took the medication. I sent another text a few hours later, hoping that maybe she had changed her mind. I cried when she didn’t respond. 💔

[@winsome6705]

God bless ur heart my condolences

[@denisecox3125]

ALS is the cruelest of all diseases. It is horrific, I lost a great friend last April to ALS. 💔🖤💔

[@cheryljohnson7838]

My daughter passed away 12 years ago from this horrible disease. On a ventilater with a tracheotomy. She died at home with hospice and surrounded by her loved ones. It could have been so much better.

[@beckyc.2401]

Yes it is. 😢 My mother past away from it in 2013. It's horrible. 😢 Sorry for the loss of your friend. 💔

[@MOAB-UT]

My friend got it from his Lyme Disease vaccine. Tragic. He was previously young and very healthy. Far stronger than me.

[@dawnmguzman]

I watched my Uncle suffer with ALS. I won't share here how horrific it was in the last few months before his passing but I can say I am 100% certain the right to choose your route of passing is very important.

[@bluejay9890]

@@MOAB-UT Lyme disease vaccine? I thought there was no Lyme disease vaccine for humans.

[@andrewcole4255]

Today is my sister’s birthday, February 1st. Her name was Rebekah. She was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer when she was 20. She fought for nine years. Over that time, she told me on more than one occasion that she wanted to watch her adolescent son grow up. However, she coupled that comment with saying she also wanted to end her life due to the pain from surgeries. Although at the time I was horrified hearing her say this, telling her to stay strong. Looking back now, I know how strong she was. She has been gone for just over 10 years. I think back on her life and wonder if MAID could have helped her. This treatment may have assisted her in feeling like she had some control over her life and how it ended. I was her big brother and protecter. Miss her so much!! No matter your point of view on this sensitive topic, I respect you and wish you the best. Only my anecdotal experience, and hope you can respect my opinion too.

[@ellegee4683]

Thank you for sharing. My deepest condolences on your loss.

[@Kim-oo9vv]

I am sorry, very sorry to read this! 😢😢😢❤

[@matildabishops9196]

Sorry for your loss. Your sister shares my birthday. ❤❤

[@lilysgram5886]

We cannot understand the pain and/or despair an ill person is going through. The way she made the decision and did it surrounded with love makes sense to me. Do not judge others unless you’ve walked a mile in their shoes. 💞

[@chillbilly2517]

HUGZ

[@rose_thee_stallion]

She wanted to die and not live as if she had died. I see nothing wrong with that. She wanted to be herself, have her mind and not be a in a vegetative state. How is that a discrimination against disabled people? It’s not. Her life. Her choice. It’s not like she was in a wheelchair and could still be in somewhat good health. This brave woman was dying and I support her.

[@suzanner8360]

ALS does not result in a vegetative state. It results in loss of all muscle control,ultimately inability to speak, swallow, and breathe. Most cruelly, you keep your mental facilities until the end. My mother died of this disease and I completely understand why this woman wanted to pursue this option.

[@Eveningbreeze721]

She mentioned that she didn't want to die. But like you said, she didn't see the point of living like that. But I think it's important to note that given a better choice she would have wanted to live a healthy life.

[@UncleDavesKitchen]

I'm a Pediatric Hospice RN. so nice to have this service for those at the end of life to provide comfort. So sad we've yet to provide humans the same dignity we do provide animals. some would just prefer to pass on before they dissolve in a hospital bed.

[@leahamos2015]

I want to thank you for the very selfless job you do. I hope you know what a treasure you are to humanity. I have the utmost respect for you and the job you do. I was my mom's AND my dad's in-home hospice caregiver during their cancers, and we were incredibly lucky to have some of the best people I've ever met taking care of all of us as hospice nurses and CNAs. I agree with you, we all should have the option to choose our end of life plan on our terms with our dignity intact. Peace be with you ❤️

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

Yes. Thank you for your service.

[@Liam69400]

Could not agree with you more. RRT here for 43 years and have seen what you describe over and over again♥

[@PigeonsPie1]

I worked 5-years in a nursing home. Maybe I need to also say I was VERY middle aged when I had this job? I was no young kid. I took care of several bedridden (meaning that there was no chance that they would have been gotten up and put in a W.C. and taken anywhere). VERY bedridden people. With muscle contractions and gosh. I would pray God would take them SOON... The end of someone's life, especially if they have their awareness and an opinion on the matter~we need to take their choices into consideration. That would be me; BELIEVE me. If there is no possible recovery I don't know why other people would decide that I need to be medicated and operated on ~.

[@apathyguy8338]

If I had your job I would be forced to take the medications. How do you separate your life from your work? The burnout rate must be astronomical.

[@Firephosure]

I support this 100%. I wouldn't want to continue living like this and I certainly don't want anyone to talk care of me living like this.

[@blumberg1982]

There is a huge difference between people with disabilities and people is terminal illnesses, who are not going to get better and only continue to suffer while living.

[@anthonyrowland9072]

Why do you get to choose? Maybe somebody's has been seriously bi-polar for 36 years and they're tired...

[@jmo2104]

Exactly

[@helloworld2645]

@blumberg1982 Millions of people live daily with extreme chronic pain, heavy doses of narcotics only deaden the pain for a little while. After 5, 10,15, 20 yrs they may just feel done with it. They don't have a quality of life. Or like someone with MS. My cousin died of Parkinsons a few years ago after being wheelchair bound for about 10yrs. He needed round the clock care. The last 3-4 yrs he cldn't talk or feed himself. It was sssoooo sad to see him just sit there and drool. He wasn't going to die in 6 months, but he shldn't of had to go through that!! My Mom's care with Lewy Body Dementia wasn't as bad as that but cost 19k a month!! Medicare doesn't kick in until she goes through all her life savings. And the daily hallucinations of being kidnapped, tied up, being arrested, building on fire was not a life. I sure don't want to end my life being like that.

[@Peterec124]

May she rest in peace. Condolences to her family and friends!

[@MariaSanchez-tn9zp]

There is no peace after suicide this is a sin

[@ruthadams9911]

​@@MariaSanchez-tn9zp, what peace would she have ?? Suffering unimaginable pain, and deterioration, it is a sin to make someone suffer a horrible and unforgiving terminal disease.

[@blaiseaimee7098]

Rest in Peace??? No God. No Peace. Know God. Know Peace.

[@yvonnemascoll356]

Agree ​@@blaiseaimee7098

[@tonifoster7095]

This is how I want to go. On my own terms. This should be legal in every state.

[@christophertmunro4503]

GOD BLESS THE MEMORY OF THIS SWEET LADY, HER LOVED ONES, FAMILY AND FRIENDS NOW AND FOREVERMORE

[@desiderata333]

AMEN.

[@paytonkane2501]

What a brave, beautiful woman! Thank you for shedding light on this important issue. Godspeed, dear heart! ❤️

[@cindyrobinson3882]

"Godspeed"??? God had NO part in this!! 😢

[@RoxieHuszar]

@@cindyrobinson3882Why would a ‘God’ want anyone to suffer with a terminal disease?

[@sarahjeannepeterson5536]

​​@@cindyrobinson3882God has his hands in EVERYTHING!!!! ❤ NOTHING IN THIS WORLD OCCURS WITHOUT GOD!!!

[@HaveCommonSense76]

My mom died from ALS 25 years ago. It was horrific to watch her slowly die.

[@tammytaylor8847]

Beautiful story. Thank you for sharing. Rest in peace sweet lady.

[@JamieRoberts77]

I was a medical professional, turned patient. I don’t have 6 months or left to live but there will come a point when my illness will become that prognosis. I live in New York where it’s been pending - forever. I really hope this gets passed this year so I can have access to it. And for those that don’t agree with it, the simple solution is don’t use it as your treatment. But don’t forsake those that want/need it.

[@theresistance3818]

Thank you for your advocacy + strength. Unless, you or someone that you love have been directly affected by this horrific nightmare of a disease, you will never understand what this drug means to someone. Sending you love 🫂🫂🫂

[@mackinacisland3825]

How i wish people would live their lives with this thought in mind.

[@AnikoMattison]

God be with you!

[@Gman7283-ys7xb]

🙏

[@ifloatupwards]

Ive been battling severe health issues since I was 9. I want the choice of going out without suffering more than ive already have.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

Yes, dear Human. ❤❤❤

[@Veronica-tn2xc]

You're so right. My final days are coming but I don't have that choice. You'll be fine dear 💙

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

@Veronica-tn2xc I've thought about that now that I'm old. A couple states have euthanasia ( Ore & Wash, I think) but if you are really on your last legs, how do you get there?

[@therealsophiemary]

There are currently 10 states and D.C in America where it's legal. There's a website called death with dignity that can answer all of your questions.

[@Missliaz]

@@Veronica-tn2xc why do you have ALS? I’m sorry 😢

[@sunshineland]

The fact that she said she didn't want to die but had chosen to end her life is heartbreaking. 😥💔

[@absatwell8163]

@@sunshineland Of course she doesn’t want to die, but also doesn’t want to live the next few months of her life suffering and putting her family through watching her suffer.

[@susanlovesjava4961]

It's not heartbreaking. It's freedom from a broken unfixable body.

[@PossumLover1111]

@@susanlovesjava4961 So well stated. Thank you.

[@SnowLeopardForever]

She was suffering in pain and that was worse than being alive. I watched my mother suffer as she was dying from cancer. And when you love someone, you realize them suffering is the worst thing that could happen to them. And you don't want that. You don't want them to suffer and be in pain.

[@PossumLover1111]

@@SnowLeopardForever I'm so sorry you had to witness that pain and so sorry she experienced it. We say "Rest in Peace" because Peace is what we want for our loved ones when they've suffered so much. And to Rest.......finally. The kindest thing one can do is to respect the suffering person's wishes no matter how much we selfishly want them around for our own sake.

[@MsPixi66]

May you find peace from England❤

[@barbaraheinze9406]

As a retired nurse who worked for 32 years I’ve witnessed thousands of dying pt and if you can go peacefully why would you want to live if your in to much pain like cancer pts.

[@kimplate0]

I deeply empathize with her. ALS is truly the worst disease. My grandfather also had ALS he wanted peaceful quick death like she had but his journey was so much more painful.

[@catofthenorth64]

The one last thing that an individual can dictate... What a brave act of compassion

[@micgant]

This the the way. We should have a choice when to leave. She is a brave beautiful soul. Rest in peace.

[@GLITTERandSKULLZ]

We do.

[@julievanderleest]

It’s called suicide sadly. People make that choice daily and it’s heartbreaking.

[@jrucin]

What an incredibly moving story. Everyone should be able to make the choice that is best for them, with dignity and appropriate assistance, when it’s right for them. RIP Barbara.

[@RobinBoBobbin]

After seeing several family members linger in pain and misery for months/years, I don't blame people for choosing this. We treat our pets better than our fellow human beings when we know they are sick, and in pain. Bless this woman and her loved ones. What a beautiful ending to a life well lived.

[@MikeBarbarossa]

I had 2 uncles that were suffering losing a fight with cancer. The doctors said " let's give this one more shot with this surgery" ($) They both died days after last ditch surgery in the hospital , being in more pain and disdomfort post surgery. I learned my lesson from that. Fight, but no when to throw in the towel, insist on just strong pain meds ( or asisstance) and call it quits

[@RobinBoBobbin]

@@MikeBarbarossa 😓

[@RaulRodriguez-vt5dc]

I thought about it after two spine surgeries, paralysis, and a medically induced coma for over 5 weeks… I didn’t want to be in a bed forever having people clean me. Thank God I was able to get back on my feet, but it’s still scary.

[@SleeplessinOC]

Wow . Hope you are doing very well health wise and otherwise presently !!

[@RaulRodriguez-vt5dc]

@ I’m doing well considering. Thanks for your concern.

[@gailgrant3209]

That freedom to choose is a blessing. 💙🙏🏾💙

[@petecross22]

This may be one of the most important stories I have ever watched. My brother Matthew had the privilege of this choice. Certain issues can be abstract until they come into your life. I have never been clearer in my judgment about a human beings right to make this choice. Barbara, thank you for sharing your story.

[@MsMadmax1]

I can't imagine what it's like to be stricken with a disease that robs you of everything that you are. While I am a Christian who traditionally doesn't believe in suicide, I have to ask myself "Does God want us to suffer like this just to prove He's in charge?" I can't pretend to know the answer to that but everything within me tells me that He wouldn't. I admire this woman for her courage to face death on her own terms and for the courage her family displayed in supporting her.

[@absatwell8163]

Thank you for having an open mind about it. I know many folks who think everyone involved in this is going to hell. 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@dianaf.s.1345]

Only God can judge a soul at the time of death but Christianity has always believed suicide is morally wrong.

[@angelasmith1112]

So you don’t trust God.

[@absatwell8163]

@@dianaf.s.1345 Which god? That being said, there are so many more religions out there and some don’t believe in anything. Who cares. So is it wrong to put pets out of their misery as well? They are, after all, “gods creatures”. Why use medicine at all? Why prolong a life that will be miserable? You do realize that at the end of life (if you don’t pass suddenly) doctors prescribe a heck of a lot of morphine to make it more peaceful and quicker? When my mother was dying the home she was in said, “they didn’t have enough morphine”. This was at about 9PM. I told them they had better get some. They did and she passed about 12 hours later as I held her frail, suffering body. I was 31. Did I want her to die? No! Did I want her to not be in pain? Yes!

[@joannedibben2352]

If there is a god he is loving and kind he wouldn't want this poor lady to suffer in and on I'm sure

[@metsrus]

death isn't the enemy. the souls know when it's time

[@doonewatts7155]

❤

[@barajasjalisco]

❤

[@blaiseaimee7098]

Our creator knows the day, the hour and the way we will die. People want to be their own God.

[@jenirichard380]

@@blaiseaimee7098 I always find this sentiment confusing. If when we are born, he already knows how and when we will die, why are you questioning or judging her death? Who are we to doubt that this is exactly the day and way God had planned it to be?

[@evorider3689]

@@blaiseaimee7098 Our creator gave us humans the intelligence to be able to end our lives in a humane manner when faced with otherwise dying a horrific death! We are told that God is a loving God, and I personally believe that to be the case, and therefore believe that he does not want us to suffer unimaginable amounts of suffering when we do not have too.

[@msflaneuse4340]

Beautiful story. Thank you for bringing light to this subject. It really moved me and made me think deeply about the need to speak more often and openly about death in our culture. Well done. Blessings to her and her beloveds. ❤

[@jolynnhill8502]

My husband died from ALS. It is an unforgiving disease and very cruel. He wanted to drive off a bridge. He didn’t and his end was horrific.

[@callycharles2515]

We don't make animals suffer so why make humans suffer? The criteria for the medicine is strict and makes a lot of sense. For those who oppose it, what right do you have to deny another person from this? I'm glad states are catching on; it's overdue.

[@MandatedReporter]

Trust in Lord with all your might and lean not on your own understandings. We are called to suffer as Christ did. These are the words I leaned on when I was nearly cut in half, when I was sepsis, when death was better than living because God's love was there and to come back to this was unimaginable pain. Know that we are called and for this I give thanks and praise to God. I did not have the strength but he gave it to me and I am able to walk and run.

[@ga6589]

Not everyone believes in your god. We should be free to make our own end of life choices.

[@kintsugi-u7v]

The Lord was unfairly and brutally murdered. Not making light of His suffering, but it (physically) wasn't drawn out over months and weeks. It's just not the same. I'm glad He gave you the strength to endure. I hope He does the same for me.

[@maryowens8763]

This needs to be legal in all states.

[@bellaforyou6061]

Eventually you lose the muscle strength needed to eat, talk or even breathe. ALS is one of the worst ways to die. She made the right decision.

[@TaraAnsty76]

I absolutely agree this should be made available to all suffering a terminal disease. My mother had AlS and to watch her go from a vivacious , funny and caring woman to an absolute shell , was beyond traumatic! May this woman be blessed and may her family be able to heal. I respect anyone that doesn’t believe in this but it’s between you and God, in the end!

[@guitardee1]

Both my sister and mother died from this disease. Both fought bravely to the end, mum only one year, my sister lasted five. Ten years apart.

[@mrich9654]

The worst thing to live with . I don’t blame her for choosing dignity. ❤️

[@MOAB-UT]

My friend got it from a lyme vaccine.

[@christinestoudnor5248]

This woman's last gift to us is to show that she was of sound mind when she made this decision and was surrounded by family who loved her. She was already suffered a lot and did not need to suffer more. Not only did this spare her the immense pain of what could have been her last natural days, but it also spared her family from having to make tough decisions and to have to see her suffer. God bless this woman. Most people would not to be filmed in such a state, but she did this so as to help make it legal in other states, too.

[@lisaapp839]

RIP Barbara. God bless and keep you. I cry for your family and friends as I read this but I also smile knowing where you are.

[@lolah3838]

I'm in NJ and know someone who went through a similar procedure. I'm grateful that this is an option to end suffering.

[@santaclause9034]

Same here so glad it’s legal in Jersey

[@stacyhunter2710]

Everyone should choose how they want to leave this planet. RIP Barbara you are a hero and angel

[@ChantalS-i9w]

Everyone who enters this world must exit it. Once again, just because you wouldn't make a certain medical decision for yourself, it doesn't give you the right to dictate what someone else chooses for themselves.

[@marygoff3332]

Bravo 👏 👏

[@marnat5961]

My brother in law had terminal lung cancer. He chose euthanasia- three doctors had to verify and certify that his life was ending. He chose the day and time. At 16:00 was his time. The doc came in and asked if he was ready and certain this was it. He said yes but said let me go to the bathroom first; when the doc injected him he winked his eye at my sis and he was gone. Very very quick! I still have a hard time wrapping this around my brain but glad he could make this choice. This was in Europe .

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

One of parents is going downhill fast from Alzheimer’s. Because his brain is going, I don’t believe he is eligible for this MAID. He and his wife are truly suffering together. I fully hope that when my body is “past it’s expiration date” that I have the right say goodbye when I say it’s time. And what an incredible honor for this nice lady to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

[@marysherman9839]

Why should anyone be in charge of a persons dying wishes. They must think how the person is and if they stay they suffer. Its called torture. Peaceful, or suffering what it boils down to. I hope more states will consider letting people own their own lives.

[@SephoraBelle]

This lady has a warrior soul, may she rest in power. Deepest condolences to her family/friends.

[@irisheyes5890]

My mother died after 3 years of ALS. During her suffering I became closer to my mother and watched her bravery. In her suffering I and those around learned to appreciate our lives. She’s a hero to me.

[@user-fl6ko9do5y]

love to you. that is a healthy and God given perspective, Her pain and suffering was not in vain.

[@PracticalPerry]

There was a huge obvious difference in the disabled, paralyzed guy, with some mobility, who could work (with accommodations), and Carol whose disease was ravaging, killing her and she could not work, among many other basic things she could not do. God bless and keep you Carol. You are brave and one of God's children. ;)

[@sanaishere18]

Yes! Someone shouldn’t have to die if they can live a life with accommodations/aid but can’t afford it or access it for whatever reason. Carol’s case is what this is really made for and I hope somewhere she’s at peace now.

[@julievanderleest]

I think what he was concerned about is that doctors would give less treatment to patients who have terminal illnesses or chronic conditions and they still want to keep fighting and living life as much as they can. He didn’t want doctors to begin to push the method of assisted suicide to those who are severely disabled or have serious illnesses.

[@MalikaRodriguez-n5e]

@@julievanderleestthis . the original poster completely misunderstood the other side of the argument and that that health aid for those who live will be cut

[@stormyweather2807]

​@@MalikaRodriguez-n5e have you read Project 2025? Govt funded health aid is going to be cut, that's already a given.

[@bessmay5353]

Yes, look at the abuse of it in Canada.

[@firecloud77]

She didn't die. She left her body and returned to where she came from. Where we all come from.

[@AB78]

“ I’m not afraid of dying I’m afraid of living “ 😢😢 got me. Glad she is no longer suffering, to her family and friends sorry for your loss

[@claudinethomas4700]

CBS should have added more information about the folks who want to live, and need help.

[@debjudisch5548]

Why? This was a beautiful story about the other end of the spectrum. The one that is seldom heard. Our society just assumes that people get old, or have something like ALS, and the time will come when family can no longer care for them properly, so they will be placed somewhere to be given care by strangers until it is their time. I believe that every single one of us wonders what our end will be like. Some people say they are afraid of dying. I don't think we are afraid of dying, but more afraid of HOW we are going to die. If each of us knew what to expect of our individual experience, the fear of the unknown would be gone. Sorry if this doesn't make sense...it's a bit hard to explain. God bless...

[@DanielCardenas-g3x]

My grandmother on my mom's side, had ALS. It affected her vocal chords and esophagus. She could not talk or eat anymore. She lasted 6 months after that, with a feeding tube. Till she passed away. It was back in the early '90s.

[@bgyd6687]

I'm so sorry 😢

[@kmarti63]

My father had heart disease. After his second surgery he told a 17 year old me that he would rather die than have another surgery. Four years later, I heard my mom calling to me in a panic. He was having chest pains and didn’t want her to call the rescue. We tried CPR while one of us called the rescue. It was too late. He died. My mom felt guilty. I reminded her that he didn’t want to have another surgery. He got to die at home in his recliner. I was happy for him. Just like I understand this woman’s decision.

[@judyhowell7075]

Personal choice is best, I will not live as a vegetable with children taking care for me

[@GooniesGirl]

If I cannot wipe my own arse, then it's time for me to go. I've seen the horrible treatment the sick elderly and disabled receive in those skilled nursing facilities. Left alone to sit in their own waste, get bed sores, and are neglected..

[@amandahirschfeld7382]

So sad but at least she did it on HER OWN TERMS.May she R.I.P😢🙏🕊

[@calgal5752]

I had many ALS patients over the years. It is a horrific, tragic disease.

[@lieslwindjulie3230]

May She rest in peace 🕯️🌹

[@yvonneplant9434]

It's still a mystery why Stephen Hawking lived so long with ALS.

[@alfmagoo]

Bless this woman and her family. My mother suffered with this terrible disease for 2.5 years. She couldn't swallow, walk, or talk and moaned continuously day and night. It was awful to know her mind was aware of everything happening to her. She died from heart failure one day after being put in a nursing home.

[@glennleslie6127]

I respect her decision. ALS is a horrible horrible disease.

[@consumerdebtchitchat]

I am grateful I was raised in Eugene oregon. I can go home when I know it's time for me to go. I will not just sit and wither in a wheelchair. Bless this woman for sharing her story.

[@jeanineberna8458]

I think this is awesome! What a beautiful display of love in this family!

[@E.J.Westfall]

I’m sorry for everything that has happened to Mr. Hernandez, but he doesn’t get to tell other people do with their lives. He made his choice in life. Other people have to make their choices in life and allow them to live with some dignity. Sometimes that means not living with tremendous amount of pain. Leave people to live their lives the way they want to live or not.

[@Spillthetea31115]

He has every right to speak his mind

[@E.J.Westfall]

@ and no one else has the right to even choose the way they wanna live their life? Is that your point?

[@kendallevans4079]

@@Spillthetea31115 Speak yes, tell others what to do? NO!

[@bogeysbaby]

His concern is that if it is made legal in his state will services to the disabled be cut back to the point where it would make assisted suicide the only option left? That is his concern and it is a valid one.

[@E.J.Westfall]

@ okay, I understand that now. But one more question. Are you and he the ones entitled to have a concerned or opinion? I am standing ten toes down on what I said.

[@michellemccoy3726]

This should be available for people in this situation. May she rest in peace.❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@stephanietribuna8591]

If anyone wants to oppose this for themselves, fine. Don't interfere with anyone else!

[@SANITIZEDINC]

Human compassion and dignity. We should all have the right to make such a choice.

[@GLITTERandSKULLZ]

We do.

[@ChunmaiRoo]

My Mother was diagnosed Nov of 2023. ALS is a slow and horrible disease. It sucks!!! I see my Mother deteriorate every day. It breaks my heart to see her suffer. I would not blame anyone with this horrible illness if they decide to go this route.

[@reneegordon506]

She had a very sound mind. God bless her soul.🙏🏽

[@louisep5178]

I hope they find a cure for ALS so people don't have to have to make these heartbreaking choices.

[@kintsugi-u7v]

ALS, cancer, all of it. I know we all have to go sometime, but if everyone could just go peacefully in their sleep instead of from a horrifying disease, that would be incredible.

[@annchristine47]

Every human being should have the right to decide how they wish to die especially when they are suffering.

[@JoanBrown-j3e]

Can you imagine the heartache and pain needed to make this decision? May God carry this beautiful woman to heaven and welcome her with His love and grace.

[@clarastark7149]

This option, if allowed to expand, is only going to allow insurance companies to say “oh that medical procedure isn’t covered, but you know what is? Assisted dying” It’s gross and heart shattering

[@tinaragland267]

I pray one day this will be legal in all states. It’s so hard to watch someone you love suffer for days.

[@kandydewey1286]

I’ll be honest. I don’t agree with this. This is something I puts about. I don’t agree with it because it’s my understanding it’s against Gods will, but I can’t speak for him nor the people who choose to leave this world in such a way. Most of us don’t know how we would react unless we are in their shoes. I have learned a lot in the church especially not to judge others except to for them. Only God knows where her heart was at the time of departure and that’s what matters. Those of you that don’t know God I pray you find seek him. He’s just a short conversation away. Have a blessed week 😊

[@robertmartin6180]

That’s amazing. I can only imagine having all my friends and family sit on my bed and hold my hands while I went away.

[@normatanwangco4283]

The beautiful and best way to go is not feel any pain. Peaceful in sleep.....no suffering. Rest in peace.

[@colleenross8752]

RIP Barbara, your pain is gone

[@stacym5135]

What will keep hospitals from abusing this and making end of life decisions for patients that cannot speak for themselves? This kind of thing has already been abused in England where the hospital took the rights away from parents and ended the life of their child. And why are countries so desirous of late to help end the lives of the elderly and mentally ill?

[@lanuryounknownshadow7391]

why would a hospital get to decide it, they can only suggest but i dont think they are allowed to administer it without the persons consent

[@stacym5135]

@@lanuryounknownshadow7391 Look at hospitals in England. They can decide in some situations the end of life care for a person, or a child without a parent or family member's consent. They go straight to a court to get them to decide.

[@RedRockView201]

What a brave, beautiful woman 💔

[@judithbrown-o2h]

Thank you so much for this! As a retired nurse, I fully support this. Rest in Paradise!

[@raoulroberts2024]

I respect her choice. Rest in eternal peace, Barbara.🙏🏾💙🤍❤️

[@Flash3-22]

Death with dignity - have known people who have made this choice. May we all have this option. Bless her and the supportive family.