Concerns Rising as New York Moves Toward Physician-Assisted Suicide
Debbie Fisher is urging New Yorkers to talk to their elderly family members ahead of the state’s upcoming legalization of physician-assisted suicide (PAS) this summer.
Rita Buzbee, a 93-year-old woman from Canada, almost became a victim of euthanasia after a single statement made in a moment of distress. Despite her active lifestyle, she was hospitalized after an accidental overdose and, while feeling groggy, told a nurse, “I want to die.” This statement was taken at face value by hospital staff.
Fisher described a harrowing moment when a Canadian psychologist informed her that they were preparing to euthanize her mother, who was a devoted Catholic and a lifelong fan of the Blue Jays. “I was terrified. It was surreal—I felt like I was bringing my dog in for a final visit,” Fisher recounted from her home in Ontario.
Luckily, Buzbee had signed a power of attorney that granted her daughter the ability to act on her behalf. Fisher and her mother were prepared for such a situation. Now, as Canada—having legalized PAS about ten years ago—faces increasing criticism, Fisher warns that New York might be heading towards a perilous “slippery slope” regarding assisted death.
“My mom truly wanted to die, but she didn’t want to be killed!” Fisher emphasized. “What could have happened if I hadn’t been there? If there had been no power of attorney?” Thankfully, Rita lived for another six months, enjoying outings to bowling and baseball games, reconnecting with family before passing away naturally at home in 2019.
“The public doesn’t often see the complexities behind closed doors in hospitals. There’s often no advocate for the vulnerable,” Fisher noted.
Over the last decade, approximately 100,000 Canadians have undergone euthanasia, comprising an estimated one in twenty fatalities in the country. “You’ve opened Pandora’s box. I fear the slope is about to get much steeper,” said Heather Hancock, 58, from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, who has cerebral palsy.
Hancock expressed her distress over doctors repeatedly suggesting MAiD to her, reflecting on a hospital visit where a nurse suggested, “You really should think about MAiD. You’re just existing.” Now, she carries a laminated “Do Not Euthanize” card everywhere.
“People with disabilities and mental health issues should be particularly cautious,” she advised. “This could be seen as a cost-saving measure rather than an act of compassion.”
Leading medical organizations in the U.S. have opposed PAS, with the American Medical Association warning that it undermines the healing role of physicians and poses unpredictable social risks. Fourteen additional states are considering similar legislation this year.
New York’s law, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, is set to take effect on August 4, requiring patients to be at least 18, mentally capable, and diagnosed with a terminal illness having a prognosis of six months or less. There will be a mandatory five-day waiting period after a prescription is issued before it can be filled.
Fisher expressed concern that these developments reflect a broader societal issue. “It sends a dangerous message: if it’s legal, it’s accepted. It’s a troubling mindset,” she remarked.
As Canada intends to formally legalize euthanasia for mental health conditions in 2027—pending legal challenges—concerns are growing about potential abuses and the implications for vulnerable populations.
Research has shown rising suicide rates following the implementation of PAS laws, with a 10.5% increase in Canada since 2021. European countries also reported alarming spikes in suicide rates following similar legislation.
A specific case in Spain has drawn international attention; the White House is investigating the euthanasia of a 25-year-old gang rape survivor, raising further questions about the ethics surrounding assisted death.
Ultimately, while supporters emphasize autonomy and dignity in end-of-life choices, critics like Fisher highlight the potentially grave societal implications of normalizing assisted suicide—echoing historical injustices.
