SAVES is not affiliated with Exit International / Dr Philip Nitschke and opposes the public availability of a 'peaceful pill'.

The following letter was given prominence in the Australian press following the death of Nancy Crick.

Dear Editor

I write on behalf of the World Federation of the Right to Die Societies to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Nancy Crick on the occasion of her longed for death.

Her willingness to again try palliative care in an attempt to gain a quality of life acceptable to her showed her independence of spirit and determination to be in control of her life. This is precisely what our movement is all about.

Contrary to what opponents may believe, the voluntary euthanasia movement does not support voluntary euthanasia per se. What it supports is choice.

We therefore support the decisions of those people who wish the dying process to take its course, as well as the decisions of those like Nancy who find life, or the dying process, intolerable and seek assistance to die.

That is why we support improved palliative care and publicise the use of the Advance Directives  ('Living Wills') which both offer choice in end-of-life decision making. We also advocate for the legalisation of voluntary euthanasia and assisted suicide.

We acknowledge Nancy's courage during the traumatic time which she so bravely endured. We appreciate her willingness to publicise the institutionalised cruelty of our present prohibitive and paternalistic law. The support of the world movement was with Nancy in any decision she made. We have all rejoiced in the extension of time that she was able to enjoy with her loving family and loyal friends.

The additional burden which Nancy assumed, in sharing her story was not in vain. She died in the knowledge that her contribution will have influenced world opinion towards compassionate reform.

Mary Gallnor
Immediate Past President
World Federation of the Right to Die Societies