United Spinal
Association
www.unitedspinal.org
October 1, 2021
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The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Joint Committee on Public Health State House Re: An act relative to end-of-life options – H2381/S1384 I am writing on behalf of United Spinal Association in strong opposition to H2381/S.1384, introduced by Representative James O’Day and Senator Joanne Comerford respectively. Since being founded by paralyzed veterans in 1946, United Spinal Association has been dedicated to advancing the independence and quality of |
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life of individuals living with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spina bifida. There are over two million individuals throughout the country with SCI/D. United Spinal has more than 58,000 members, 49 chapters, close to 200 support groups and over 100 rehabilitation hospital members and hospital partners nationwide. We also work collaboratively with 14 distinguished Spinal Cord Injury Model System Centers that support innovative projects and research in the field of SCI. United Spinal Association is a VA-recognized veterans service organization (VSO) serving veterans with disabilities of all kinds. As the medical profession and the uninformed public assist those with significant disabilities or illnesses to end their lives, it is a slippery slope where society finds itself, when we decide who lives and who dies. Medical aid in dying legislation is rooted in discriminatory attitudes towards people with disabilities. As shown by the occurrence of this hearing, the ability of people with disabilities to live successful and fulfilling lives in their communities is clearly undervalued. Many individuals with spinal cord injuries experience depression and/or suicidal thoughts after injury as would anyone in our society who may experience a traumatic injury or chronic illness. Adequate healthcare, rehabilitation and integration into the community improve outlook and quality of life. Quality of life cannot be judged, by third parties, on the basis of a snapshot in time immediately following a traumatic injury or chronic illness. Providing individualized treatment and therapy for depression and pain, expanded palliative care and increased education in the medical field about how it is possible to live a meaningful life with a disability should be the medical community’s response to people with disabilities and their families and it is the appropriate response for our community. |
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On behalf of our members and the disability community at large, United Spinal Association strongly opposes these two bills. Please do not hesitate to contact me, Alexandra Bennewith, Vice President, Government Relations at (202) 556-2076 or abennewith@unitedspinal.org. Sincerely, Alexandra Bennewith, MPA |