2 Profile Stories Regarding Physician-Assisted Suicide

When asking two random people their opinion on PAS, I was met with supportive answers. However, both of these people have different stipulations about the eligibility for the lethal drug. The morality of the requirements is questioned differently by people, which really shows how nuanced this topic is in society.

---

Melody Eleweanya, Sugar Land resident

Melody Eleweanya is a Sugar Land resident who takes care of her mother, who's living on disability. She was kind enough to answer a couple of questions for me regarding PAS.

As a starter, I'm wondering if you've heard of physician-assisted suicide, and what your opinion is on it?

"I'm pretty familiar, I've written a paper about it, actually. I'm all for it, it takes me back to Roe. V. Wade. They're obviously very different situations, but the theme is consistent: having control over your own body. I think anyone should be able to dictate what's going on with their health and their body."

Are you comfortable with the regulations put in place, or do think it should be more strict or lenient?

"Honestly, I really, really think a psych evaluation needs to be stressed. Mental awareness is so strong these days, which is amazing. Heavy screening needs to be enforced to really allow these people to think about that big decision. In the end, outside of that evaluation, it's not my body at the end of the day. These people should be able to do what they want if they're facing heavy illnesses."

Jason Baker, Sugar Land resident

Jason Baker works alongside Melody at a Sugar Land Starbucks location, and offered his similar stance but differing regulation ideas.

"I'm torn, but really in general it should be an intimate decision. The law doesn't need to get involved. The only reason I thought hard about it is because I agree that it's that one person's decision, but I also believe it should be discussed with someone else. Whether it be a partner, a best friend, or parents. It's something that at least deserves discussion."

Is there anything you think should be looked at more closely?

"The age limit. I believe it's 18, and that's just ridiculous. Teens and late adolescents are affected by so many mental health issues today, and we're still in our developing ages. I think the age cap should at least be 27 -- I know it's such a specific age, but the brain basically stops developing by that time. Then it would be a more mature, less weighted decision."