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Diane Pretty: A Fight for Control
Diane Pretty's Story
A British Woman with Motor Neurone Disease
Diane Pretty was a British woman from Luton who lived from November 15, 1958, to May 11, 2002. She became the focus of a fierce debate about the laws surrounding euthanasia in the United Kingdom. Pretty was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a debilitating condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. As her condition progressed, she became increasingly determined to control the time and manner of her death.
Legal Battle for Euthanasia
Pretty's illness prevented her from ending her own life, so she sought assistance from her husband, Brian. However, assisting in suicide is illegal in the UK, and the couple's request for an exception was rejected by the courts. Despite losing her legal battle, Pretty continued to advocate for the right to die with dignity.
Tragic Demise
Less than two weeks after her final appeal was denied, Diane Pretty tragically passed away on May 11, 2002. Her death sparked renewed debate about euthanasia and the importance of patient autonomy. Pretty's story has had a significant impact on the ongoing discussion surrounding end-of-life care and the ethical considerations involved.
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