PALS on Dr. Oz Show About Dying With Dignity

On November 1, 2011 a very thought-provoking episode of the Dr. Oz Show aired regarding dying with dignity and physician assisted suicide. As part of that touching episode, Dr. Oz spoke in-depth with Dana Wright, a patient of The ALS Association Greater New York Chapter and her family. Along with featuring Dana, Dr. Oz spoke with Montel Williams, who suffers from MS. Experts from both sides of the issue weighed in and an incredible audience discussion followed.

Following the taping of the show Dana reflected on her appearance.

"It was an honor to speak with Dr. Oz on behalf of ALS patients, the disabled and the terminally ill,” she said. “Although I had a lot to say, I feel there are many more important points to make in helping outsiders understand what this illness is, and the importance of getting to choose how to handle it. I have been told that I am a strong person and that I have dealt with my ALS well. Guess what? I am tired of being strong. I am tired of being a trouper. I am just plain old tired. The Dr. Oz Show has given me a chance to exhale. Personally I don't want sympathy, just empathy. On a lighter note I would like to thank all of the people from The ALS Association. They know who they are, from Jody to Sue to Dr. Scelsa. Everyone. And thank you to my family, especially my son Anthony and daughter Ramona."

This was a tremendously important discussion to have and one that hits particularly close to the hearts of the ALS community. We encourage you to view the links to the various segments from the show below and voice your own opinion. We look forward to your comments. Thank you.

Click here to watch Dr. Oz show “Are you prepared to cope with the end of life?”

Click here for Part 1 of the show. Dr. Oz opens up an honest conversation with the audience about the right to die.

Click here for Part 2 of the show. Dr. Oz opens up an honest conversation with the audience about the right to die.

Click here for Audience Q&A Part 1 of the show. Dr. Oz opens up an honest conversation with the audience about the right to die.

Click here for Audience Q&A Part 2 of the show. Dr. Oz opens up an honest conversation with the audience about the right to die.

Click here for Audience Q&A Part 3 of the show. Dr. Oz opens up an honest conversation with the audience about the right to die.

Click here to watch Montel Williams and Dr. Ablow sound off about their point of view on terminal illness, pain and an individual’s right to die.