The “death with dignity” bill, L.D. 1270, is known as “the compassionate death bill” for good reason. There could not be an easier way to die. All family members should be fully informed by both the family physician and family clergy of the easiest, quickest, most painless way to go.

As a family physician I’ve seen too many slow, agonizing minutes or hours of natural deaths that have been painful for all and seemingly unending.

Philip Thompson, M.D.

Portland