All posts by Diane Coleman

Pam Heavens: Do not support legalizing physician-assisted suicide

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The Times Weekly published this opinion letter by Illinois disability advocate Pam Heavens on October 2nd: The Illinois General Assembly is considering a bill that will legalize physician-assisted suicide. I am a 68-year-old Disabled woman and proud member of “Stop Assisted Suicide Illinois Coalition”, which vehemently opposes this bill. This organization includes representatives from diverse … Continue reading Pam Heavens: Do not support legalizing physician-assisted suicide →

Jensen Caraballo: The Misguided Compassion of Assisted Suicide in Disability

ableism, access to health care, assisted suicide, disability, health disparities, long term services and supports, medical discrimination, Our News & Commentary Blog, quality of life judgments, , ,

Introduction Assisted suicide is often presented as a compassionate choice for those experiencing unbearable suffering. However, as someone who has navigated life’s challenges as a disability rights advocate and someone who was once confined to a nursing home, I see a troubling oversight in this narrative. It fails to consider the systemic barriers that prevent … Continue reading Jensen Caraballo: The Misguided Compassion of Assisted Suicide in Disability →

When Disaster Strikes Everyone, the Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies Is There for Us

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By Lisa Blumberg In a widespread disaster grievously impacting people in general, people who happen to have disabilities tend to be invisible. This may partly stem from the “better dead than disabled” ethos. If a disability is considered to irretrievably diminish the quality and value of your life, why be concerned about other problems could … Continue reading When Disaster Strikes Everyone, the Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies Is There for Us →

Progressives Against Medical Assisted Suicide Film to be available for showings and distribution in early 2025

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Thanks to those who have contributed funds, ideas, and/or moral support, the Progressives Against Medical Assisted Suicide (PAMAS) film about the social and humanitarian dangers of legalizing medical assisted suicide is on target for completion by the end of the year. On September 16th, four interviews were filmed, each powerful in its own way. We … Continue reading Progressives Against Medical Assisted Suicide Film to be available for showings and distribution in early 2025 →

Carol Gill – On the Day of Her Memorial Gathering

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On August 31st, Carol Gill, my long time mentor and friend, passed away. Some, perhaps many readers of this blog may not be familiar with Carol’s work or role in the years leading up to my founding of Not Dead Yet. Below are the thoughts I sent to be shared on this day of her … Continue reading Carol Gill – On the Day of Her Memorial Gathering →