It is a more convenient alternative to a 12-step program in Alcoholics Anonymous.
The Dutch euthanasia law has been expanded to include alcoholism. In an article in the Dutch magazine Linda, journalist Marcel Langedijk describes the tragic life and death of his brother Mark, who was an alcoholic.
After eight years and 21 hospitalizations or rehabilitation stays, Mark reached a point where he felt he had reached his limit. Despite having two children, his marriage had collapsed, and he was unable to recover. His parents provided him with care, and he had the support of his family, yet he was unable to achieve sobriety.
He finally requested euthanasia. His physical condition was poor, and he was experiencing significant psychological distress. He met the minimum criteria for euthanasia in the Netherlands. A female physician in a black dress and sneakers arrived to administer the lethal injection. She confirmed his decision and then administered three doses. He died promptly.
Mark’s demise serves to illustrate the paucity of knowledge about real-life cases of euthanasia, in contrast to the sanitized versions that appear in politicians’ speeches. Is this not yet another instance of society abandoning an individual who had previously abandoned himself? What is to be expected next? Will Dutch drug addicts be encouraged to participate in the cheapest drug rehabilitation program ever? Just one injection and you are “cured” forever…
Mr. Langedijk is currently engaged in the writing of a book about his younger brother’s disease and his death through euthanasia, which is scheduled for publication in 2017.
Daniel Miller is responsible for nearly all of National Right to Life News' political writing.
With the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, Daniel Miller developed a deep obsession with U.S. politics that has never let go of the political scientist. Whether it's the election of Joe Biden, the midterm elections in Congress, the abortion rights debate in the Supreme Court or the mudslinging in the primaries - Daniel Miller is happy to stay up late for you.
Daniel was born and raised in New York. After living in China, working for a news agency and another stint at a major news network, he now lives in Arizona with his two daughters.
