Dying With Dignity with Matt Vickers

Dying With Dignity with Matt Vickers» Listen

Date: November 27, 2017

Episode Description

After being diagnosed with a brain tumor, Lecretia Seales sought out legal battle to receive assistance to die from her family doctor.  Her story sparked debate and a movement for an end of life bill in New Zealand.  Her husband, Matt Vickers, is discussing his book about this journey, as he continues to advocate for assisted dying. 

Dr. Risk’s Thoughts

The right to choose your own death is obviously controversial.  I wasn’t sure where I stood when I wanted to do this show.  I can see the grey areas where this could be misconstrued.  I think it’s a topic we should all consider before we’re in that situation, to bring more awareness to suffering, and making our own choices.

Guest Information

Matt Vickers is the New York-based author of Lecretia’s Choice and widower of New Zealand lawyer Lecretia Seales. In 2011, Seales was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Four years later, in the final stages of her life, she went to the High Court of New Zealand seeking the choice to receive assistance to die from her GP. Her 2015 court case was unsuccessful, but her actions triggered a national debate in New Zealand, which still plays out to this day, and an End of Life Choice Bill will be voted on in New Zealand parliament very soon. Vickers continues to campaign for moderate law change in the name of his late wife. His book was released in the United States two weeks ago, and it has found praise from readers and assisted dying advocates the world over.