Editor:
National elder abuse awareness day is coming up on June 15 2012.
Those who exploit the elderly and vulnerable, yes here in the Bulkley Valley too, need to be stopped!
I have two suggestions that you can do to show your appreciation and respect for those who have a wealth of knowledge at their disposal.
The first way is to work against the legalization of euthanasia.
It is important to clarify first that euthanasia is not declining life extending medication or support - this is legal.
Euthanasia can be defined as the intentional killing by act, or by omission of usual care or food and water, of a dependent human being for his or her alleged benefit.
I don’t mean to minimize the difficulties of seeing a loved one suffering.
My grandmother just had a stroke, and I remember vividly what it was like to see her so weak that she couldn’t even sip out of a straw.
The danger is when we determine which lives hold value.
My grandmother cannot do many things to help other people anymore; she has enough trouble taking care of herself.
If her loved ones did not value her for who she is, I’m sure it wouldn’t be long before she felt like she was just a liability.
This leads to the second thing we can do to make a difference, adoption.
Adoption is a loving solution for children, and could be a solution for the elderly too, especially those who don’t have loved ones nearby.
What is the answer to solving the quality of life of an elderly person – to offer a dignified death or to offer what is more costly – your time and love?
Imagine the impact of having an extra grandparent in your life or in the lives of your children.
I would like to encourage you to reach out to an elderly person and let them brighten up your life while you brighten up theirs at the same time.
Christina Verhelst
Smithers