A British couple has taken a significant step by choosing to end their lives together through a controversial form of suicide assisted by others. Peter Scott, 86, and his wife Christine, 80, are set to make history as the first British citizens to utilize the Sarco pod, an innovative device intended for euthanasia.
The couple’s decision to pass away together has captured considerable interest. Their method of death is important, but even more so is the fact that their last moments will be captured on film for a specific purpose.
Peter and Christine Scott celebrate an impressive 46 years of marriage. Following Christine’s diagnosis of vascular dementia, a progressive illness that deteriorates over time, the couple grappled with the challenging decision to take charge of their own destiny.
The Sarco pod, created by Exit International, provides individuals with a serene and swift option for ending their lives. Christine, a former nurse, had consistently voiced her wish to take charge of her destiny, particularly after her experiences caring for patients with dementia.
Peter, a retired RAF pilot, shared that he found it unbearable to witness Christine’s decline in mental faculties. “We have had long, happy, healthy, fulfilled lives, but here we are in old age and it does not do nice things to you,” Peter told “The Daily Mail”.
The Sarco pod has garnered attention for its modern design and innovative features, drawing comparisons to high-tech advancements in various industries. A stand equipped with liquid nitrogen supports the 3D-printed capsule.
As the procedure commences, the oxygen levels within the pod drop quickly, leading to unconsciousness in a mere 60 seconds. Death occurs swiftly, within a mere 10 minutes, due to asphyxiation from inert gas.
However, the documentation of the couple’s deaths heightens the controversy surrounding this story. We will submit the footage to a coroner as evidence, solely for legal purposes.
Documenting their last moments serves to verify that Peter and Christine willingly stepped into the Sarco pod. This will also prove their mental capacity when making the decision.
Dr. Philip Nitschke, the founder of Exit International and the mind behind the Sarco pod, elaborated on the importance of this process. “The capsule for two people works exactly the same as the single Sarco, but there is only one button, so they will decide between them who will push it,” Dr. Nitschke told “The Daily Mail”.
Before stepping into the pod, Peter and Christine will face three questions. They will be asked, “Who are you?”, “Where are you?”, and “Do you know what happens when you press the button?”
This guarantees that they grasp the implications of their choices. While the Scotts plan to wait until Christine’s health deteriorates further, Dr. Nitschke announced that the double pod will launch early next year.
The Sarco pod represents a groundbreaking advancement in assisted dying. This has sparked discussions worldwide about the moral implications and legal aspects of this procedure. In the UK, assisted dying remains unlawful, with potential sentences reaching as high as 14 years behind bars.
In the UK, there is an increasing wave of public support for the legalization of assisted suicide. A recent citizens’ jury has determined that individuals facing terminal illnesses ought to have the option of physician-assisted suicide as well as voluntary euthanasia.
Although this jury lacks legal authority, its conclusions indicate a growing call for transformation. Dr. Nitschke, a longstanding advocate for end-of-life choices, asserts that adults should have the fundamental human right to determine the manner in which they conclude their lives.
Peter expressed his disappointment over the lack of assisted dying in the United Kingdom. “I find it deeply depressing we can’t do that here in the UK,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll of watching his wife suffer.
Christine has expressed her desires unequivocally, emphasizing her intention to maintain control over herself and her life. Peter expressed that he couldn’t fathom a life without her. “Assisted dying gives her that opportunity, and I would not want to go on living without her.”
The couple has initiated their collaboration with the Swiss organization The Last Resort. They are preparing to travel to Switzerland, a country that allows assisted dying, to carry out their final decision.
As Peter and Christine gear up for their journey, their narrative prompts significant inquiries. Could their choice to document their deaths impact upcoming laws regarding assisted dying?
Their recorded footage stands as a compelling reflection of their individual decision. This development could intensify the current discussion regarding the possibility of the UK adopting a similar approach to Switzerland in terms of legalizing assisted suicide.
As they approach this crucial moment, all eyes will be on the Scotts. Their romantic journey, along with their unwavering resolve to shape their destiny, has drawn international interest.
The decision to use the Sarco pod is deeply personal. It may also affect assisted dying laws worldwide, including in the UK
Feature Image Credit: (The Last Resort) (Youtube)
