Peter and Christine Scott have enjoyed an abundant and rewarding life together. This couple, after 46 years of marriage, enjoys a strong connection and the joy of six grandchildren.
At 86 and 80, they are now dealing with the difficulties that come with aging. Their desire to maintain control over their lives led to a decision that has ignited international controversy.
The Scotts, who live in Mellis, Suffolk, have taken a courageous and sorrowful step. A couple has decided to end their lives together using the Sarco pod, a device that has sparked significant debate regarding assisted suicide.
Christine has received a diagnosis of early-stage vascular dementia, a condition that progressively impacts memory and cognitive abilities. Having cared for dementia patients during her nursing career, she felt a strong urge to intervene before the disease could dominate completely.
Peter, a former RAF engineer, has been facing the challenges that come with getting older. He expressed the profound impact of witnessing his wife’s mental decline while grappling with his own physical deterioration.
“We’ve had long, happy, healthy, fulfilled lives,” Peter expressed. “But here we are in old age, and it does not do nice things to you.”
Instead of enduring prolonged decline or living in a care facility, they opted for the Sarco pod. Dr. Philip Nitschke developed a device that uses nitrogen to induce death through inert gas asphyxiation.
The Sarco pod induces unconsciousness and halts breathing, completing the process in just 10 minutes. Peter and Christine are among the early adopters of the double capsule model of the pod, which has not yet reached its full potential.
The Sarco pod, created to facilitate a serene and painless end of life, continues to be prohibited in the UK. The Scotts are preparing to travel to Switzerland, a nation that has legalized assisted suicide since 1942.
The couple is currently registering with The Last Resort, a Swiss-based organization. “We understand other people may not share our feelings,” Peter said. “But we want the right to choose.”
The couple’s initial encounter took place in a jazz club, where they quickly developed a deep affection for one another. Throughout the years, they created a vibrant life rich with melodies, loved ones, and treasured moments.
Currently, they are getting ready for their last moments together. Christine imagines a peaceful stroll with Peter in the Swiss Alps, culminating in a final meal of fish and Merlot.
She has put together a collection of their favorite tracks, featuring “Wild Cat Blues” and “The Young Ones” by Cliff Richard. She chose the poem “Miss Me But Let Me Go” to encapsulate her emotions regarding their choice.
Peter fully supports Christine. “I’ve said to her, ‘You make the decision, and I’ll be with you,’” he shared.
The couple intends to remain together, cherishing their connection until the final moments of their lives. Despite the challenges this decision poses for the family, the children have chosen to honor their parents’ wishes.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Sarco pod, the Scotts view it as their sole dignified choice. “Look at the alternative,” Peter said. “You end up trapped by infirmity and pain.”
“I don’t want to go into care, to be lying in bed dribbling and incontinent,” Peter added. “I don’t call that a life.”
Their decision has reignited discussions about assisted dying, a practice that remains illegal in the UK. A Labour MP is contemplating the introduction of a private members’ bill aimed at legalizing assisted dying.
The Scotts hope that their story will inspire a transformation in UK legislation, allowing others to have the same options as them. Currently, they are working through the legal and bureaucratic challenges of registering for assisted suicide.
Christine stands resolute in her stance, stating, “Medicine can slow vascular dementia, but it can’t stop it.” When I feel I’m losing myself, I’d say, ‘This is it, Pete, I don’t want to go any further.’”
The couple, as they get ready for their last trip to Switzerland, remains steadfast in their love and their choice to conclude life on their own terms. “I’d give her a big hug and say, ‘Hope to see you later,’” Peter said.
For the Scotts, this is about more than avoiding pain. It is about preserving the dignity they have cherished throughout their long, shared life.
Feature Image Credit: Exit International/Sarco
