French MP Sandrine Rousseau Shares Emotional Testimony on Assisted Suicide

Witnessing Her Mother's End

Green MP Sandrine Rousseau delivered a poignant testimony to the National Assembly on Wednesday, recounting her experience of being present during her mother's suicide. Her mother, who was seriously ill and suffering, chose to end her life, a decision Rousseau respected and supported.

Debate on End-of-Life Legislation

Rousseau spoke before a special commission tasked with examining the government's bill on end-of-life issues. During the session, leaders of the main religions expressed their concerns about the proposed legislation. Despite respecting their views, Rousseau emphasized the importance of addressing the suffering of those nearing death.

Personal and Professional Insights on Assisted Dying

Rousseau revealed that her mother, suffering from terminal cancer, ended her life in 2013 by taking medication. The ordeal lasted nine hours, during which Rousseau could only watch helplessly. She stressed the need for compassion in the debate, highlighting the suffering involved in such deaths.

Contributions from Other Legislators

LR MP Philippe Juvin, also an anesthetist-resuscitator, shared his personal experience with deep sedation, which he administered to his father. He clarified that his actions were meant to aid, not to end life, underscoring a fundamental distinction in the ongoing discussions about assisted dying.