My Gran suffered with dementia after a stroke in 2001, she passed away last week. The last two decades of her life were filled with pain and suffering, a stark contrast to the vibrant woman she once was. In moments of clarity before dementia took over, she expressed her wish to end her life on her own terms. Unfortunately, our laws did not permit this.

Euthanasia and assisted suicide are currently illegal in the UK under the Suicide Act 1961. This law forces many like my Gran to endure unnecessary suffering at the end of their lives. In contrast, countries such as Belgium, Colombia, Luxembourg and The Netherlands have legalised euthanasia under strict conditions (World Health Organization). These countries recognise that individuals should have autonomy over their own lives including how they choose to die.

The British Medical Association reports that public opinion is increasingly supportive of assisted dying for terminally ill adults (British Medical Journal). Yet our laws remain unchanged. It's time we respect individual autonomy and alleviate unnecessary suffering by legalising euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Please sign this petition if you believe in an individual's right to choose their own fate when faced with terminal illness or unbearable suffering.