Assisted suicide has become a source of conflict between the states. Some believe that those suffering from ailments should have the right to die with dignity, while others believe it is inhumane.

The most recent case of assisted suicide is that of Brittany Maynard, a 29 year old newly-wed who was diagnosed with brain cancer. As her hospital stays grew longer, her chances of survival grew slimmer. Her tumor was growing and her doctors were losing hope. Doctors performed a craniotomy to attempt to stop the growth of Brittany’s tumor, but no matter what they did, it would always be too late.

Brittany and her family have chosen not to go through with the recommended full brain radiation, as the debilitating treatment would destroy what little time she has left. Instead, the 29-year-old has chosen to go a different route: assisted suicide.

Because she lived in San Francisco, it would have been illegal for her to die with dignity. As a result, her entire family decided to uproot and move to Oregon. This state is one of five in the entire country that allows assisted suicide.

Brittany has had the life-ending pills for months now. She has made the choice to wait until after her husband’s birthday to pass, where she will choose the date and time to take the medication. She wishes to pass with her husband, mother, stepfather, and best friend by her side.

Another case of assisted suicide is that of an 84-year-old with final stage heart failure that feels like living is a waste of time. She goes back and forth from her home to the hospital. She is short of breath and keeps asking her doctor, Sandeep Jahuar, to help her die.

Many people around the world are suffering from debilitating diseases and conditions. Those with stage four cancers may wish to die with dignity, as opposed to wasting away while their family and friends watch. Assisted suicide allows these patients to choose the time and place they will pass. Although the law to allow death with dignity has only been passed in five states, many around the country are fighting for it to be a right of passage.