Widow celebrates UK assisted dying bill 'victory'

Julie Theinpont is an advocate for assisted dying

A Guernsey woman whose husband chose assisted dying has welcomed the passing of the second stage bill to legalise it in England and Wales.

On Friday, UK MPs in the House of Commons voted 330 to 275 in favour of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, progressing it to the next stage in Parliament.

For those who support a similar law being introduced in Guernsey, it is hoped it will set a precedent for the island to follow suit, although critics say such legislation is unnecessary and end of life care should be provided..

Among supporters is Julie Theinpont, 63, whose husband Guy legally choose to end his life with medical assistance in Spain after developing a terminal lung condition.

'Crossed a line'

Ms Theinpont has advocated for the practice to be legalised in the Channel Islands since her husband's death said she was "delighted" it had support in the UK.

She said: "As a survivor of someone who took assisted dying, I know he would have really liked this to be possible for everybody.

"It was really important for him that people had a choice about the way the live and die, so for me it feels like such a victory.

"I understand that people don't support it, and their feelings are valid, but I was thrilled to see a majority passed it through."

Ms Theinpont said the moment was particularly poignant as it was nearing the two-year anniversary since his passing.

But not everyone agrees assisted dying should become the legal norm locally.

Opponent Dr Susan Wilson, who has worked as a GP in Guernsey for four decades, said: "I'm absolutely gutted - for our society and vulnerable people who will be affected by this.

"When we've crossed a line, we can't go back. Our resources should be poured into caring for people who are suffering.

"Modern medicine being what it is, there are all kind of refined ways of looking after people in their last weeks and months and alleviating suffering."

It comes as a request to make assisted dying legal in Guernsey could be made in early 2025, according to former Chief Minister Gavin St Pier.