Madam, – I’m writing in relation to the article “They asked me why would I want to live” (HEALTHplus, April 12th). My Dad passed away 21 years ago this week from motor neurone disease (MND). The author has three sons; one the same age as I was when my father died. The few years I had with my Dad are the most distant yet precious memories I have.
Each day with the help of invasive ventilation may be an extra day that Simon Fitzmaurice has with his young family. He knows his fate just like any MND sufferer but there should still be choice; he is an advocate for patients out there who may be cornered by an inability to communicate, misinformation and red-tape. By refusing to accept the norm, he is now fulfilling his wish to go home. Well done to the HSE for its role, along with the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA). As Simon Fitzmaurice said “Remember that behind every disease is a person” and this person will be spending time at home with his family for however long that may be – time and memories are priceless. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – Simon Fitzmaurice’s story (HEALTHplus, April 12th) of self-belief, determination, joie de vivre and love in the face of acutely difficult medical circumstances and pressure to surrender is inspirational.
It is all beautifully reflected in the positively joyous photograph of him and his three boys.
I salute him and wish him and his family well. – Yours, etc,