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Brother Advocates Assisted Dying Law on Sister's Anniversary

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On the two-year anniversary of his sister Paola's death at Dignitas, Tony Marra calls for England to pass assisted dying legislation.
Paola, terminally ill with bowel cancer, traveled to Switzerland for the procedure, feeling UK laws failed.
Marra urges Parliament to pass the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, delayed in the House of Lords.
A Scottish bill on assisted dying was rejected, prompting calls for improved end-of-life care.

History

Historical Context

The debate over assisted dying in the UK has roots dating back to 1931, when Dr. C. Killick Millard proposed a Voluntary Euthanasia Bill. Despite numerous legislative attempts, including the 2015 Assisted Dying Bill, which was rejected by 330 votes to 118, public support remains strong, with recent polls indicating that 75% of respondents favor legalizing assisted suicide.

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Story summary

On the two-year anniversary of his sister Paola's death at Dignitas, Tony Marra calls for England to pass assisted dying legislation.
Paola, terminally ill with bowel cancer, traveled to Switzerland for the procedure, feeling UK laws failed.
Marra urges Parliament to pass the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, delayed in the House of Lords.
A Scottish bill on assisted dying was rejected, prompting calls for improved end-of-life care.

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