Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Shuffle off this mortal coil in comfort and style

There is the old joke about the beggar who stood outside church each Sunday. Each week one congregant made a point to give the beggar $10. But one Sunday he handed the man a single five-dollar bill.
"What's the matter?" the beggar asked, "You usually give me $10!"
"I'm having a tough year," his benefactor responded.
"You're having a tough time," the beggar echoed, "so why should I suffer?"
I suspect that Dr. Stuart Weisberg could identify with the thinking of the beggar. Dr. Weisberg is a psychiatrist operating in Portland, Oregon who is opening a "Dignity House" to take advantage of the financial opportunities created by Oregon's "Death with Dignity Act."
Dr. Weisberg will be offering a range of services to those who wish end their lives including options such as media relations, a professionally edited video documenting the grand event, music, beautician services, catering, and even an option to spend three hours with Dr. Weisberg and his "therapy dog" for only $1200. (fee schedule here)
I'm sure the good doctor is simply concerned with allowing suffering people to find peace, and if he can pocket about $5,000 per head so much the better.

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