1 00:02:47,190 --> 00:02:52,860 Hello, my friends. I'm Derek Humphry. I founded the Hemlock Society in 1980 ... 2 00:02:52,960 --> 00:02:57,619 ... and amongst other books, wrote that best-selling volume in 1991 called ... 3 00:02:57,719 --> 00:03:04,630 ... Final Exit: The Practicalities of Self-Deliverance and Assisted Suicide for the Dying. 4 00:03:04,830 --> 00:03:10,440 What I'm going to talk to you about on this short video is the new and up-to-date version of this book. 5 00:03:10,640 --> 00:03:14,470 But first, let me set the atmosphere of this whole, difficult subject ... 6 00:03:14,570 --> 00:03:15,420 ... by telling you briefly the story of how I helped my own first wife to her end when she was dying of cancer. 7 00:03:22,620 --> 00:03:27,149 What Jean did is described in a little book called Jean's Way ... 8 00:03:27,249 --> 00:03:31,260 ... and it has more or less set the broad standard in the following 20 years ... 9 00:03:31,360 --> 00:03:35,840 ... for the practice of accelerated death by people with terminal illness. 10 00:03:36,040 --> 00:03:39,740 When Jean realized that her breast cancer was spreading into the bones ... 11 00:03:39,840 --> 00:03:42,411 ... and she was not likely to live much longer ... 12 00:03:42,511 --> 00:03:46,130 ... she thought the matter over and came to me with a proposition. 13 00:03:46,330 --> 00:03:50,280 Which was, "When the time comes and I am close to death ..." 14 00:03:50,480 --> 00:03:56,090 "... if the pain and indignity are unbearable to me, I would like to kill myself." 15 00:03:56,290 --> 00:04:00,680 "But I need your help. If you're willing, please go to a doctor ..." 16 00:04:00,780 --> 00:04:06,040 "... and ask for lethal medications which we can keep until that time comes." 17 00:04:06,240 --> 00:04:12,920 "I can only stand so much pain and stress," she said, "and I know I will want to hasten the end." 18 00:04:13,950 --> 00:04:19,670 Instinctively, I agreed to help. This was truly a "death by request". 19 00:04:19,870 --> 00:04:24,490 Fortunately, I knew a courageous doctor who understood Jean's situation ... 20 00:04:24,590 --> 00:04:30,940 ... and provided me with the deadly drugs. I told her that I had them stacked away. 21 00:04:31,140 --> 00:04:37,150 Jean didn't want to die, she was 42. So she battled on for another ten months ... 22 00:04:37,250 --> 00:04:42,950 ... until the cancer invaded all of her vital organs. She kept fighting to live. 23 00:04:43,150 --> 00:04:47,540 When she was taking so many painkillers, just to get an hour of comfort ... 24 00:04:47,640 --> 00:04:50,816 ... when she could no longer get to the bathroom on her own ... 25 00:04:50,916 --> 00:04:54,250 ... and when her bones were breaking spontaneously ... 26 00:04:54,350 --> 00:04:58,300 ... she asked me one morning, "Is this the day?" 27 00:04:58,500 --> 00:05:03,360 I knew of course what she was asking. Had the time come to end it? 28 00:05:03,560 --> 00:05:09,140 Our original pact the previous year had stipulated that it would be a joint decision ... 29 00:05:09,240 --> 00:05:14,990 ... in case her judgment was clouded with the numerous drugs she was taking to survive. 30 00:05:15,190 --> 00:05:21,330 When I agreed that her end was close, she stated, "I shall die at one o'clock." 31 00:05:21,530 --> 00:05:24,582 She had said goodbye to our teenage sons ... 32 00:05:24,682 --> 00:05:28,537 ... whom she had discreetly told of her plans the previous morning. 33 00:05:29,240 --> 00:05:34,718 We spent quality time together, going over the past and the future ... 34 00:05:34,918 --> 00:05:41,110 ... and if she had not mentioned again that she wanted to die, I would not have brought it up. 35 00:05:41,310 --> 00:05:47,040 But right at one o'clock, she said, "Look at the time. Go and get it." 36 00:05:47,240 --> 00:05:51,630 I went into the kitchen and mixed the lethal drugs into a large mug of coffee ... 37 00:05:51,730 --> 00:05:56,407 ... laced it with plenty of sugar to reduce the bitter taste. 38 00:05:56,607 --> 00:06:02,000 When I returned to her bedside, Jean said, "Is that it?" 39 00:06:02,200 --> 00:06:05,332 "Yes," I told her. "Drink that and you will die." 40 00:06:05,532 --> 00:06:10,190 I got on the bed, and we enjoyed a last hug and a kiss. 41 00:06:10,390 --> 00:06:14,680 Then I set down beside her, and she lifted the mug to her lips. 42 00:06:14,880 --> 00:06:17,740 She gulped the liquid down rapidly. 43 00:06:17,940 --> 00:06:22,282 Then she just had time to say, "Goodbye, my love" ... 44 00:06:22,382 --> 00:06:26,678 ... before she passed out. Fifteen minutes later, she was dead. 45 00:06:36,510 --> 00:06:40,120 I'm talking about self-deliverance for the terminally ill ... 46 00:06:40,220 --> 00:06:45,390 ... or in some rare cases, the irreversibly ill whose suffering is unbearable. 47 00:06:45,590 --> 00:06:52,046 I am not talking about clinically depressed people or mentally ill people who wish to die. 48 00:06:52,246 --> 00:06:56,030 That is another serious problem, best dealt with by others. 49 00:06:56,230 --> 00:07:01,722 I am not uncaring about mental and emotional suffering, but it is not my field of expertise. 50 00:07:01,922 --> 00:07:05,290 If anybody watching this video is thinking of killing themselves ... 51 00:07:05,390 --> 00:07:09,980 ... because of an emotional, mental or depressive problem ... 52 00:07:10,080 --> 00:07:17,310 ... please seek immediate help from your physician, a psychologist, a minister or a health professional. 53 00:07:17,510 --> 00:07:19,356 Please get help. 54 00:07:20,910 --> 00:07:27,181 And I must add this legal warning. While suicide is not a crime, nor is attempted suicide ... 55 00:07:27,281 --> 00:07:35,560 ... assistance in suicide remains technically a crime. That is so for both physicians and individuals. 56 00:07:35,760 --> 00:07:40,530 Only the state of Oregon permits physician-assisted suicide for the terminally ill ... 57 00:07:40,630 --> 00:07:45,610 ... under strict conditions laid down by the law passed by the voters. 58 00:07:45,810 --> 00:07:51,680 It is also permitted in Switzerland and the Netherlands, but you can't go there to get it. 59 00:07:52,580 --> 00:08:01,030 What is meant by "assistance"? In these circumstances, it is providing and bringing the means of suicide ... 60 00:08:01,130 --> 00:08:06,510 ... a gun, heaven forbid, or the lethal drugs to the dying person. 61 00:08:06,710 --> 00:08:12,950 Assistance is also helping physically to put the drugs into the person's mouth or body ... 62 00:08:13,050 --> 00:08:16,220 ... or putting a plastic bag over the head of the person. 63 00:08:16,420 --> 00:08:21,585 In essence, any physical action to assist the voluntary death of the person. 64 00:08:22,660 --> 00:08:28,140 What is not assistance? It is not assisting to be present when the person takes their life ... 65 00:08:28,240 --> 00:08:31,850 ... not is it assistance to discuss the suicide of a person. 66 00:08:32,050 --> 00:08:37,120 Neither is it assistance to provide information about methods of self-destruction. 67 00:08:37,320 --> 00:08:40,710 If it was, I would be doing life imprisonment, wouldn't I? 68 00:08:40,910 --> 00:08:45,080 In the Right-to-Die movement, we hold it to be a fundamental principle ... 69 00:08:45,180 --> 00:08:49,947 ... that a dying person should not have to do this awesome thing alone. 70 00:08:51,210 --> 00:08:56,411 It is a borderline felony to encourage someone to end his or her life. 71 00:08:57,070 --> 00:09:00,460 Anyway, such promotion is totally immoral. 72 00:09:00,660 --> 00:09:06,890 In our movement, we just don't do it. It must be a death by request. 73 00:09:07,090 --> 00:09:12,910 Anyway, briefly, just so everybody knows, my overall goal is law reform. 74 00:09:13,110 --> 00:09:20,550 Since 1978 I've argued and fought for lawful voluntary euthanasia and assisted suicide. 75 00:09:20,750 --> 00:09:26,430 But until that day arrives, or unless we have a brave and cooperative physician ... 76 00:09:26,530 --> 00:09:31,510 ... willing to ignore the prohibitions, or happens to able to use the Oregon law ... 77 00:09:31,610 --> 00:09:33,782 ... we must tackle this ourselves. 78 00:09:38,579 --> 00:09:41,924 The first thing to do is to ask a doctor. 79 00:09:42,124 --> 00:09:47,488 Some doctors, not just doctor Kevorkian, have the courage to help a person die ... 80 00:09:47,588 --> 00:09:54,750 ... provided they can do it in the strictest confidence. It depends on the circumstances. 81 00:09:55,262 --> 00:09:59,090 If lots of family is present in the house, forget it. 82 00:09:59,290 --> 00:10:04,420 If the close family shows any disagreement with a voluntary, hastened death ... 83 00:10:04,520 --> 00:10:07,774 ... forget it so far as the doctor is concerned. 84 00:10:08,340 --> 00:10:10,880 Doctors don't take risks. 85 00:10:11,080 --> 00:10:16,690 To make use here of some famous clichés where assisted suicide is concerned ... 86 00:10:16,790 --> 00:10:21,400 ... small is beautiful, and silence is golden. 87 00:10:21,600 --> 00:10:24,990 Friendship and absolute trust are necessary. 88 00:10:25,190 --> 00:10:32,570 If the circumstances look propitious, by all means approach your doctor first. It might work. 89 00:10:33,170 --> 00:10:38,000 Now, if you have to chose voluntary death for yourself or your loved one ... 90 00:10:38,100 --> 00:10:42,590 ... or your best friend, who has made such a decision and wants your support ... 91 00:10:42,690 --> 00:10:46,110 ... be adviced that careful planning is vital. 92 00:10:46,310 --> 00:10:49,358 This can't be done easily or taken lightly. 93 00:10:50,020 --> 00:10:56,620 And here, let me enter a caveat. It is prudent not to help a stranger to die. 94 00:10:56,820 --> 00:11:00,870 You never really know what lies behind this reason to die ... 95 00:11:00,970 --> 00:11:06,580 ... or who in the family is a born-again and might object and make trouble. 96 00:11:06,780 --> 00:11:10,200 If the person is new to you, stand clear. 97 00:11:10,400 --> 00:11:17,344 Only help if you know the person's personal, domestic, and financial circumstances reasonably well. 98 00:11:18,230 --> 00:11:23,860 You are in sensitive territory here, emotionally, ethically and legally. 99 00:11:24,060 --> 00:11:29,860 Ideally, only help a person whom you love or are a true friend of ... 100 00:11:29,960 --> 00:11:36,810 ... and only help if you yourself, in your heart, feel absolutely comfortable in doing so. 101 00:11:37,010 --> 00:11:41,740 This is a very serious decision, which the helper has to live with. 102 00:11:41,940 --> 00:11:47,260 So, assuming you don't have a doctor's help, what now? 103 00:11:47,460 --> 00:11:51,270 Of course, we in the Right-to-Die movement abhor any form of violence ... 104 00:11:51,370 --> 00:11:53,430 ... no guns, no knives or window ledges. 105 00:11:53,630 --> 00:12:01,800 Car exhaust used to be dangerous, but today's high-tech models emit very little carbon monoxide. 106 00:12:02,000 --> 00:12:06,585 It takes many hours to die in a garage full of fumes ... 107 00:12:06,685 --> 00:12:12,660 ... and there is a grave danger to other people, of fire, explosion or gas leaking. 108 00:12:12,860 --> 00:12:16,720 Don't, I beg you, use a car for voluntary death. 109 00:12:16,920 --> 00:12:24,460 It sounds nice sitting there in your favorite automobile, going off to the last sleep, perchance to dream ... 110 00:12:24,560 --> 00:12:30,140 ... and ay, there's the rub. If it shouldn't work, or the engine stalls ... 111 00:12:30,240 --> 00:12:33,640 ... or if you are interrupted by a caller and wake up ... 112 00:12:33,740 --> 00:12:38,383 ... the chance of brain damage and paralysis is very high. 113 00:12:43,764 --> 00:12:47,890 Almost every terminally ill person has an abundance of morphine. 114 00:12:48,090 --> 00:12:52,790 It's a superb painkiller. It is also lethal in overdose. 115 00:12:52,990 --> 00:12:54,483 But it has one huge drawback. 116 00:12:54,983 --> 00:12:59,650 If a patient has been taking it regularly, there develops a tolerance. 117 00:12:59,850 --> 00:13:04,743 Then, too often, huge overdoses of morphine do not end life. 118 00:13:05,530 --> 00:13:09,510 So what drugs do you use? More important, can you get them? 119 00:13:09,710 --> 00:13:12,380 I'm being negative again, I know, but I must warn you ... 120 00:13:12,480 --> 00:13:16,970 ... that there are lots of drugs which will end life, but not pleasantly. 121 00:13:17,170 --> 00:13:23,529 There are the tricyclic antidepressant drugs, which are lethal, but they are risky in their deadliness ... 122 00:13:23,929 --> 00:13:30,519 ... and worse still, have a terrible record of side-effects, particularly hallucinations and convulsions. 123 00:13:31,120 --> 00:13:35,320 Chloroquine, the anti-malarial drug, also can be deadly ... 124 00:13:35,420 --> 00:13:41,120 ... but it can also fail in certain circumstances. Other drugs in the body can neutralize it. 125 00:13:41,320 --> 00:13:46,990 Remember also that these tricyclics are prescribed to fight the patient's depression ... 126 00:13:47,090 --> 00:13:50,920 ... which is not a state of mind associated with rational suicide. 127 00:13:51,120 --> 00:13:58,050 Nobody wants his or her death to be labeled a "depressive suicide" for posterity. 128 00:13:58,450 --> 00:14:02,900 Now, once a decision has been made about a hastened, voluntary death ... 129 00:14:03,000 --> 00:14:06,180 ... then must begin the hunt for barbiturates. 130 00:14:06,380 --> 00:14:09,260 The patient should ask the doctor for them. 131 00:14:09,560 --> 00:14:15,110 Some physicians are able and willing to prescribe quietly, confidentially ... 132 00:14:15,210 --> 00:14:20,030 ... but do not wish to know any more about the matter to protect themselves. 133 00:14:20,230 --> 00:14:23,238 In order of effectiveness, the drugs are. 134 00:14:24,031 --> 00:14:28,240 Number one is Nembutal, which is pentobarbital. 135 00:14:28,440 --> 00:14:34,750 The most lethal oral drug, it absorbs very quickly into the human system. 136 00:14:45,260 --> 00:14:52,267 Number two is Seconal, which is secobarbital. This is also very lethal. 137 00:15:02,653 --> 00:15:09,159 Number three is Phenobarbital. It's lethal, but slower acting. 138 00:15:09,618 --> 00:15:16,350 Large doses of barbiturates put a patient to sleep within minutes, and usually kill within an hour or less. 139 00:15:16,550 --> 00:15:20,028 But be warned, in some rare cases ... 140 00:15:20,128 --> 00:15:24,970 ... particularly if the patient still has a strong heart, although weakened in other respects ... 141 00:15:25,070 --> 00:15:31,040 ... death will not come for several hours. In rare cases, up to eight hours. 142 00:15:31,240 --> 00:15:36,720 Thus great patience might be required in this very difficult time. 143 00:15:36,920 --> 00:15:43,770 As they expire, the patient may snore loudly. That sounds unpleasant, but it is normal. 144 00:15:43,970 --> 00:15:45,870 The drugs are working. 145 00:15:46,070 --> 00:15:53,790 Even if the patient stirs once or twice, or mutters, the drugs are still probably working. 146 00:15:53,990 --> 00:16:00,280 Now, I know you're going to ask me, "Barbiturates are so hard to get. Won't other drugs do?" 147 00:16:00,480 --> 00:16:04,090 Yes, and they are listed in Final Exit. 148 00:16:04,290 --> 00:16:12,389 But they are not so effective as barbiturates, and usually require a plastic bag to ensure a quick ending. 149 00:16:17,800 --> 00:16:23,010 A light snack is necessary two to three hours before the time of the planned end. 150 00:16:23,210 --> 00:16:26,030 Plain stuff. Tea and toast is ideal. 151 00:16:26,230 --> 00:16:29,104 A full stomach slows down the effect of drugs ... 152 00:16:29,204 --> 00:16:35,046 ... whilst a small amount helps absorption and reduces the chance of vomiting. 153 00:16:35,829 --> 00:16:42,630 Take a steady dosage of antiemetics beforehand, one every hour for at least three hours. 154 00:16:42,830 --> 00:16:50,920 This is very important. In self-deliverance, vomiting the drugs is the greatest hazard. 155 00:16:51,120 --> 00:16:53,573 We have learned that a good aid to speed death ... 156 00:16:53,673 --> 00:17:00,240 ... is for the patient to take six or eight beta-blockers just before the "hemlock" ... 157 00:17:00,340 --> 00:17:03,907 ... as these slow down the heart and make it vulnerable. 158 00:17:04,107 --> 00:17:08,120 Lopressor is a typical prescription beta-blocker. 159 00:17:08,320 --> 00:17:13,990 The other great hazard is of the patient falling asleep before ingesting enough lethal drugs. 160 00:17:14,190 --> 00:17:21,050 If that happens, then there's trouble. The patient must bolt the drugs within two to three minutes. 161 00:17:21,250 --> 00:17:28,190 Failure to do so could mean failure to die, because an unconscious patient can't swallow anymore. 162 00:17:28,390 --> 00:17:33,410 One safeguard against this sleep problem is to acquire morphine patches ... 163 00:17:33,510 --> 00:17:36,960 ... which of course can be applied while the patient is comatose. 164 00:17:37,160 --> 00:17:42,370 They will help achieve death if there is an unforeseen delay. 165 00:17:42,570 --> 00:17:46,480 It is best to take about ten of the pills as they are ... 166 00:17:46,580 --> 00:17:53,670 ... washed down with a moderate amount of alcohol or water or non-carbonated lemonade. 167 00:17:53,870 --> 00:17:57,730 But the bulk of them should be in powder form. 168 00:17:57,930 --> 00:18:05,160 If the medications are in gel capsule form, open them up and pour them into a powder. 169 00:18:05,360 --> 00:18:12,580 If they are in pill form, either grind them up by hand or put them in a food processor. 170 00:18:12,780 --> 00:18:17,580 Then mix the mix the lethal powder into a pudding which the patient enjoys. 171 00:18:17,780 --> 00:18:25,197 Could be yoghurt, apple sauce, fruit preserves. Whatever his or her taste buds like best. 172 00:18:25,397 --> 00:18:33,029 Vodka is known to be by far the most superior alcohol to drink to wash down the pills. 173 00:18:33,388 --> 00:18:41,710 It's strong, and it's plain. The alcohol will also strengthen the deadliness of the medications. 174 00:18:41,910 --> 00:18:44,917 But don't overdo it, in case of an upset stomach. 175 00:18:46,084 --> 00:18:50,798 Don't take carbonated drinks like 7 Up or Pepsi. 176 00:18:50,998 --> 00:18:53,799 They slow down the absorption of the drugs into the system. 177 00:18:55,093 --> 00:19:01,015 Plain lemonade or orange juice is preferable. Nothing fizzy. 178 00:19:02,110 --> 00:19:07,349 Whether the patient has family with them, or the patient is unfortunate enough to be dying alone ... 179 00:19:07,449 --> 00:19:10,300 ... it is essential to leave a note which ... 180 00:19:10,500 --> 00:19:18,116 1. Orders that no person move or resuscitate them if they are found still alive. 181 00:19:18,575 --> 00:19:26,332 2. Explains why life is being taken. The disease, the suffering, and so forth. 182 00:19:26,917 --> 00:19:33,923 3. Stating definitely no other person encouraged or assisted this action. 183 00:19:34,758 --> 00:19:39,290 There's a sample letter in the book Final Exit. 184 00:19:39,490 --> 00:19:45,877 Now, let me make this very clear. The only sure way to end life quickly, within minutes ... 185 00:19:45,977 --> 00:19:50,180 ... is by injection, into the veins, of lethal drugs. 186 00:19:50,482 --> 00:19:58,240 That's universally known as "voluntary euthanasia". But that, of course, is not likely to be available to you. 187 00:19:58,540 --> 00:20:02,250 Taking lethal drugs by mouth is also deadly ... 188 00:20:02,350 --> 00:20:08,320 ... but not with the same degree of speed, because of the time it takes for the body to absorb the drug. 189 00:20:08,520 --> 00:20:11,553 Also, the human body is a strange mechanism. 190 00:20:11,753 --> 00:20:17,390 Sometimes it reacts differently, uncharacteristically, to certain drugs. 191 00:20:17,718 --> 00:20:21,705 Frail, older people with weak hearts will die fairly quickly ... 192 00:20:21,805 --> 00:20:26,685 ... but younger and middle-age persons with strong hearts will last longer. 193 00:20:27,650 --> 00:20:30,626 The fifty-year-old son of friends of mine lasted seven hours ... 194 00:20:30,726 --> 00:20:34,960 ... after properly ingesting nine grams of liquid Seconal. 195 00:20:35,060 --> 00:20:40,330 He had a brain tumor, but the remainder of his body was strong and healthy. 196 00:20:40,530 --> 00:20:44,971 With hindsight, he should also have been given beta-blockers to slow the heart ... 197 00:20:45,071 --> 00:20:49,950 ... and vodka to magnify the toxicity of the Seconal. 198 00:20:50,150 --> 00:20:55,320 The moral of this is, handle every case on its respective merits. 199 00:20:55,520 --> 00:20:59,380 Nothing is standard in this field of voluntary death. 200 00:20:59,580 --> 00:21:07,192 A common sense evaluation of the obvious medical, psychological, and family factors is necessary. 201 00:21:07,392 --> 00:21:13,272 Hastened death requires forethought and planning to be sure of success. 202 00:21:13,780 --> 00:21:17,928 If you can obtain a canister of carbon monoxide with a connecting hose ... 203 00:21:18,028 --> 00:21:21,820 ... and a fitting rubber face mask, using that is lethal. 204 00:21:22,020 --> 00:21:28,913 But not everybody can get hold of such equipment, which is used mainly in industry and research facilities. 205 00:21:30,874 --> 00:21:36,254 When is the time to die? Now, that's a very, very individual decision. 206 00:21:36,550 --> 00:21:42,450 Don't do it too soon, because life is precious, both to you and those who love you. 207 00:21:42,650 --> 00:21:44,741 On the other hand, if you wait too long ... 208 00:21:44,841 --> 00:21:49,320 ... you may become unconscious or incompetent and lose control. 209 00:21:49,520 --> 00:21:53,990 Put some probing questions about your future to your medical advisors. 210 00:21:54,190 --> 00:21:59,480 Consider your own levels of pain tolerance and necessary dignity. 211 00:21:59,680 --> 00:22:06,993 Discreetly sound out those people closest to you, then make your own judgment about when and where. 212 00:22:07,369 --> 00:22:14,680 Another tip. Be very cautious about telling others of your intentions to check out. 213 00:22:14,880 --> 00:22:19,450 Medical people who oppose rational suicide might use a health law ... 214 00:22:19,550 --> 00:22:26,047 ... to slam you into the psychiatric ward of the local hospital as a "suicide risk". 215 00:22:27,347 --> 00:22:31,330 Where do you get the lethal drugs? You can't start looking too soon. 216 00:22:31,530 --> 00:22:32,893 Here are a few ideas. 217 00:22:34,970 --> 00:22:37,300 Ask your doctor, just in case. 218 00:22:37,500 --> 00:22:44,717 See if he or she will prescribe barbiturates in small doses over several prescriptions ... 219 00:22:44,817 --> 00:22:47,251 ... which you then hoard. 220 00:22:47,451 --> 00:22:54,466 Look in medicine cabinets to see if there are any lethal drugs which match the chart in Final Exit. 221 00:22:54,666 --> 00:23:02,380 See if you can get hold of veterinarian Nembutal, which is used to euthanize animals. 222 00:23:02,580 --> 00:23:06,729 It's in liquid form, and two bottles should be lethal for a human. 223 00:23:06,929 --> 00:23:09,373 If you are visiting a foreign country ... 224 00:23:09,473 --> 00:23:16,447 ... ask your local doctor for a prescription for a barbiturate because you can't sleep. 225 00:23:16,647 --> 00:23:20,175 Pharmacies in Asian countries like Thailand and Hong Kong ... 226 00:23:20,275 --> 00:23:24,570 ... are sometimes willing to sell barbiturates without prescription. 227 00:23:24,770 --> 00:23:27,590 It's worth trying if you're there. 228 00:23:27,790 --> 00:23:31,260 Mexico used to be a source for serious medications ... 229 00:23:31,460 --> 00:23:35,289 ... but they have clamped down on the type of drugs we need for self-deliverance. 230 00:23:40,921 --> 00:23:46,620 Using the plastic bag is not mine, nor anybody's idea of a dignified death ... 231 00:23:46,720 --> 00:23:52,040 ... but if a person is desperate to be sure to die, or has only mild sleeping pills ... 232 00:23:52,140 --> 00:23:55,184 ... then it is sometimes the death of choice. 233 00:23:56,895 --> 00:24:02,358 The Final Exit Plastic Bag Technique. These are the materials needed. 234 00:24:03,277 --> 00:24:10,199 First, get two rubber bands just big enough to stretch over the head and sit firmly around the neck. 235 00:24:10,720 --> 00:24:14,510 Purchase a paper mask from a local hardware store. 236 00:24:14,740 --> 00:24:21,753 Sometimes they're called "painter's masks" or "dust and particle masks". They cost a couple of dollars. 237 00:24:22,100 --> 00:24:26,530 Then, find a clear plastic bag, just big enough to go over the head ... 238 00:24:26,630 --> 00:24:31,490 ... and then be secured by the elastic bands below the Adam's apple. 239 00:24:31,690 --> 00:24:36,502 Some persons may prefer a larger bag, which works more slowly and may be more comfortable ... 240 00:24:36,602 --> 00:24:42,120 ... or an opaque bag, obscuring vision. It's all a matter of choice. 241 00:24:42,320 --> 00:24:46,704 The best size is about 19 inches by 23 inches ... 242 00:24:46,804 --> 00:24:51,760 ... which can be purchased in the "foils and wraps" isle of a supermarket ... 243 00:24:51,860 --> 00:24:59,625 ... often marketed as "Oven Bags", turkey size, 19 inches by 23.5 inches. 244 00:24:59,968 --> 00:25:04,310 This size bag is long enough to tuck under the elastic bands ... 245 00:25:04,410 --> 00:25:07,925 ... with space to spare for the paper mask. 246 00:25:08,509 --> 00:25:12,700 Select your sleep aids and decide how many to put you to sleep ... 247 00:25:12,800 --> 00:25:16,575 ... in a short a time as possible, but no longer than thirty minutes. 248 00:25:16,975 --> 00:25:23,450 Over-the-counter sleep aids will suffice if they work for you and are taken in sufficient quantity ... 249 00:25:23,550 --> 00:25:25,233 ... 10 to 20 at least. 250 00:25:25,859 --> 00:25:30,320 Well before the time of the intended self-deliverance, when thinking clearly ... 251 00:25:30,420 --> 00:25:35,077 ... and in the company of any person who is supporting your action, do this. 252 00:25:35,536 --> 00:25:40,120 Examine the bag for possible holes. 253 00:25:40,320 --> 00:25:44,511 Blow into it. Put one bag inside another if doubtful. 254 00:25:44,711 --> 00:25:50,934 Don the paper mask. This will stop the plastic bag from being sucked into the mouth and nostrils. 255 00:25:51,134 --> 00:25:55,380 Put the two elastic band around the neck to check size and tightness. 256 00:25:55,580 --> 00:26:01,945 They must not be too tight to be uncomfortable, or too loose to allow leaks. 257 00:26:02,145 --> 00:26:06,482 Put the plastic bag on for less than a minute. 258 00:26:10,779 --> 00:26:17,628 And then take it off. A few quick practice attempts often remove the discomfort some people feel. 259 00:26:17,828 --> 00:26:21,800 Now make a decision about the size, shape, and color of the bag. 260 00:26:22,000 --> 00:26:26,940 If you select a larger one, you must be willing for the self-deliverance to be slower. 261 00:26:27,180 --> 00:26:33,759 Should you be bothered by the plastic on your forehead and eyes, wear a baseball hat with a stiff brim. 262 00:26:34,400 --> 00:26:37,040 And now, the actual self-deliverance. 263 00:26:37,240 --> 00:26:40,724 If a rational decision has now been made to end it ... 264 00:26:40,824 --> 00:26:44,380 ... because the dying process is too painful and protracted ... 265 00:26:44,480 --> 00:26:48,858 ... and if no physician is willing to help, then take the following steps. 266 00:26:49,943 --> 00:26:54,130 Tell all close family and friends whom you trust will not stop you ... 267 00:26:54,230 --> 00:26:59,535 ... that you shortly intend to take your life using drugs and a plastic bag. 268 00:27:00,120 --> 00:27:04,840 Such warnings minimize surprise and shock when it eventually happens. 269 00:27:05,040 --> 00:27:09,712 They know what to expect. Also, thank them for their love. 270 00:27:10,380 --> 00:27:15,860 Leave a note saying exactly why you are taking your life, name the disease ... 271 00:27:15,960 --> 00:27:21,349 ... and orders that nobody interferes with your action if you are discovered before death. 272 00:27:22,226 --> 00:27:27,730 Carry out this procedure in a distinctly cold room. A warm environment might be uncomfortable. 273 00:27:28,815 --> 00:27:33,400 Get into a comfortable sitting position, slightly tilted backwards ... 274 00:27:33,500 --> 00:27:37,073 ... for lying down is not the best position for this procedure. 275 00:27:37,560 --> 00:27:41,728 Swallow all the sleep aids, and perhaps a few tranquilizers ... 276 00:27:41,828 --> 00:27:45,924 ... using alcohol or water to wash them down. 277 00:27:46,124 --> 00:27:50,721 If you have beta-blockers, take eight to ten of them to slow the heart down. 278 00:27:50,921 --> 00:27:54,933 Put the paper mask over the nose and mouth. 279 00:27:55,133 --> 00:28:02,191 Put two elastic bands over the head, and settle them around the lower neck. 280 00:28:02,391 --> 00:28:08,502 Place the plastic bag over the head and draw the rubber bands over the bag ... 281 00:28:08,602 --> 00:28:14,190 ... securing it firmly at around the Adam's apple area. There must be no leaks. 282 00:28:14,390 --> 00:28:17,780 Or you could use pantyhose tied around the bag. 283 00:28:17,980 --> 00:28:21,260 Now, the secret to this procedure is this. 284 00:28:21,460 --> 00:28:27,780 With two thumbs, hold the elastic bands stretched out a few inches from the Adam's apple ... 285 00:28:27,880 --> 00:28:31,360 ... allowing a supply of air to get in. 286 00:28:31,560 --> 00:28:38,440 And so that your arms will drop when you fall asleep, do not support your elbows on pillows or armrests. 287 00:28:38,640 --> 00:28:40,511 Wait until the sleep aids take effect ... 288 00:28:40,611 --> 00:28:48,480 ... and as sleep overwhelms you, allow the hands to drop and the elastic bands to tighten around the neck ... 289 00:28:48,580 --> 00:28:54,890 ... and close off all air. Breathing inside will continue normally. 290 00:28:55,090 --> 00:28:57,888 As long as there is no further intake of air ... 291 00:28:57,988 --> 00:29:02,643 ... death will follow in about thirty minutes after the onset of sleep ... 292 00:29:02,743 --> 00:29:06,450 ... and the simultaneous closure of the bag. 293 00:29:06,650 --> 00:29:10,780 Breathing continues, but death follows due to the lack of oxygen. 294 00:29:10,980 --> 00:29:15,610 If something has gone wrong during the procedures, take the apparatus off ... 295 00:29:15,710 --> 00:29:21,677 ... pause for careful reflection, and start again if the will to die still remains. 296 00:29:22,179 --> 00:29:29,140 Only end your life if you are desperately ill and no other acceptable alternative remains. 297 00:29:29,340 --> 00:29:34,607 Remember, it is much better to have a companion with you in self-deliverance. 298 00:29:34,942 --> 00:29:42,220 Now, a point to bear in mind. It is the bag which is lethal. The drugs only make it more comfortable. 299 00:29:42,420 --> 00:29:45,576 And don't drink or eat anything which might make you throw up. 300 00:29:57,020 --> 00:30:01,919 Well, my friends, as you know, it's extremely difficult to get barbiturate drugs ... 301 00:30:02,019 --> 00:30:04,860 ... for self-deliverance from a terminal illness ... 302 00:30:04,960 --> 00:30:09,510 ... and they only work really well when injected, and that's even more difficult. 303 00:30:09,710 --> 00:30:18,650 Now, in recent times, we have developed a method of ending your life peacefully, painlessly ... 304 00:30:18,750 --> 00:30:23,180 ... and not breaking the law and not requiring a doctor. 305 00:30:23,380 --> 00:30:26,534 Now, this is the Helium Method. 306 00:30:32,970 --> 00:30:37,930 If you make a personal decision to die in this way ... 307 00:30:38,030 --> 00:30:43,890 ... here is the equipment and the bits and pieces that you need to carry this out. 308 00:30:44,090 --> 00:30:48,723 And remember, practice beforehand with dummy runs. 309 00:31:20,750 --> 00:31:25,830 This is what you need if you choose this form of self-deliverance. 310 00:31:26,030 --> 00:31:33,690 Two tanks of helium gas purchased from a toy store or a party store. 311 00:31:33,890 --> 00:31:40,560 You remove the nozzles from the tanks with the little wrench. 312 00:31:40,760 --> 00:31:46,270 You need a plastic bag of about this size. 313 00:31:46,470 --> 00:31:57,720 You need four feet of vinyl tubing, 1/2 inch outside diameter, 3/8 inch inner diameter. 314 00:31:57,920 --> 00:32:04,140 You need a plastic T-junction to join it together ... 315 00:32:04,240 --> 00:32:08,370 ... and the two tanks are tapped in together. 316 00:32:08,570 --> 00:32:12,340 The piping runs into the plastic bag ... 317 00:32:12,440 --> 00:32:17,321 ... and you have everything ready to make your first practice. 318 00:32:17,521 --> 00:32:21,010 Practice without turning the gas on, of course. 319 00:33:10,830 --> 00:33:15,950 You have to go to a toy store or a party celebration store ... 320 00:33:16,050 --> 00:33:22,240 ... and purchase kits for inflating the party balloons. 321 00:33:22,440 --> 00:33:32,420 These are tanks of helium, which is a non-flammable, non-explosive inert gas. 322 00:33:32,620 --> 00:33:37,110 It is only dangerous in an enclosed space, like I'm going to demonstrate. 323 00:33:37,310 --> 00:33:39,228 It is not dangerous in the general area. 324 00:33:39,428 --> 00:33:43,050 It disperses extremely quickly in the air and is not dangerous. 325 00:33:43,250 --> 00:33:47,920 Otherwise, how could you let children blow up balloons with it? 326 00:33:48,120 --> 00:34:00,550 You have two tanks of this, and each tank has a nozzle on it for children to blow up the balloons. 327 00:34:00,750 --> 00:34:06,613 You have to take this nozzle off. You need a wrench to just loosen it ... 328 00:34:06,713 --> 00:34:19,090 ... and then it becomes finger-loose, and you remove each nozzle ... 329 00:34:19,190 --> 00:34:23,187 ... and put them away. They have ceased to be of any use. 330 00:34:40,110 --> 00:34:51,060 This point, you take your vinyl tubing and connect it with this T-valve, or T-junction. 331 00:34:51,260 --> 00:34:56,914 You firmly put one side onto there ... 332 00:34:57,014 --> 00:35:06,090 ... the other side onto here ... 333 00:35:06,190 --> 00:35:10,818 ... and your kit is ready. 334 00:35:19,190 --> 00:35:22,930 You make sure that everything is secure and fits well. 335 00:35:23,130 --> 00:35:26,850 Take your time and practice this in advance. 336 00:35:27,050 --> 00:35:33,990 Don't do it at the crucial moment when ending life. 337 00:35:34,190 --> 00:35:38,350 Then, say your important goodbyes to people. 338 00:35:38,550 --> 00:35:43,740 Make sure in your own mind that this is what you want, to bring a swift end to your life ... 339 00:35:43,840 --> 00:35:49,650 ... because of the suffering that you are enduring here ... 340 00:35:49,750 --> 00:35:51,880 ... and begin with the next move. 341 00:35:52,080 --> 00:35:54,700 You have the plastic bag. 342 00:35:54,900 --> 00:36:05,790 Now, let me point out helium gas or any inert gas is only deadly in a confined space. 343 00:36:05,990 --> 00:36:11,060 It drives the oxygen out of your brain, and you become brain damaged. 344 00:36:11,260 --> 00:36:18,810 A human brain cannot live without oxygen. The helium expels the oxygen from your brain. 345 00:36:19,010 --> 00:36:28,050 This is not death by suffocation. This is death by severe, fatal brain damage. 346 00:36:28,250 --> 00:36:32,540 So if you are ready to leave this world ... 347 00:36:32,640 --> 00:36:42,740 ... your next move is to put the bag on your head like this, over your forehead and back of the head. 348 00:36:42,940 --> 00:36:51,150 Then it is advisable to squeeze the natural air out of the bag. 349 00:36:51,350 --> 00:36:55,250 You got what you might call a "shower cap" appearance. 350 00:36:55,450 --> 00:37:00,280 The tank is running up into it. 351 00:37:00,480 --> 00:37:07,120 And at the moment you are ready to die, if that is still the decision ... 352 00:37:07,220 --> 00:37:12,480 ... you exhale as much air out as you can ... 353 00:37:12,580 --> 00:37:15,630 ... and you turn the tanks on. 354 00:37:15,830 --> 00:37:21,365 It must be you who turns the tanks on to keep within the law. 355 00:37:22,500 --> 00:37:28,810 Now, I'm going to turn them off because I don't wish this to be fatal, but I'll show you what you do next. 356 00:37:29,010 --> 00:37:36,190 But I have turned the helium off for my own protection, and I'm going to release the helium. 357 00:37:36,610 --> 00:37:41,100 But whatever helium in that bag, you would then ... 358 00:37:48,220 --> 00:37:52,529 ... and coma will come within seconds. 359 00:37:52,729 --> 00:37:57,710 Death will take place within three to five minutes at the most. 360 00:37:57,910 --> 00:38:05,790 It's quick, and fast, and painless, and you are the person who has done it. 361 00:38:05,890 --> 00:38:15,461 It is your own responsibility because you have done this, and nobody else has assisted your suicide. 362 00:38:27,640 --> 00:38:32,540 If you are making your own kit for this form of self-deliverance ... 363 00:38:32,640 --> 00:38:38,145 ... one way to hold the plastic bag onto the neck in a secure fashion ... 364 00:38:38,245 --> 00:38:42,980 ... is to purchase a sweatband from a sport store. 365 00:38:43,180 --> 00:38:44,410 Thus. 366 00:38:44,610 --> 00:38:48,270 Put the sweatband down over the neck. 367 00:38:48,470 --> 00:38:50,020 Put the plastic bag ... 368 00:38:50,120 --> 00:38:54,510 ... this plastic bag without the ribbon on. 369 00:39:01,280 --> 00:39:08,723 And put the plastic bag held in position by the sweatband. 370 00:39:17,420 --> 00:39:23,628 Let me point out that was has been done here and what you might choose to do ... 371 00:39:23,728 --> 00:39:26,540 ... is entirely your own responsibility. 372 00:39:26,740 --> 00:39:32,747 It is not the responsibility of the manufacturers of the tanks or the tubing ... 373 00:39:32,847 --> 00:39:34,960 ... or anybody involved in this. 374 00:39:35,160 --> 00:39:37,560 Life is a personal responsibility. 375 00:39:37,760 --> 00:39:40,630 Suicide is a personal decision ... 376 00:39:40,730 --> 00:39:47,887 ... personal self-determination, and you must take the accounting for that. 377 00:40:59,001 --> 00:41:02,050 Again, I repeat, while it is advisable to have someone present ... 378 00:41:02,150 --> 00:41:08,259 ... they need not be physically involved with the Helium Bag Method, thus cleared of legal risk. 379 00:41:09,052 --> 00:41:13,681 The patient switches on the gas by reaching down to the tank. 380 00:41:14,516 --> 00:41:18,420 Suicide and attempted suicide, I repeat, are not crimes ... 381 00:41:18,520 --> 00:41:21,731 ... nor is it a crime to passively observe a suicide. 382 00:41:22,524 --> 00:41:27,028 It can be felony to physically assist a suicide. 383 00:41:32,000 --> 00:41:35,040 Okay, here are my last bits of advice. 384 00:41:35,240 --> 00:41:40,834 After it is all over, those who are left behind should not dial 9-1-1 ... 385 00:41:40,934 --> 00:41:44,060 ... the police, fire, and ambulance emergency number. 386 00:41:44,260 --> 00:41:49,750 To do so would almost certainly bring police cars racing up, sirens blaring. 387 00:41:49,950 --> 00:41:54,340 Then paramedics arrive, and it is their duty to restore life. 388 00:41:54,540 --> 00:42:01,650 So when it is certain that the patient is dead, first call the mortician whom the family intends to use ... 389 00:42:01,750 --> 00:42:07,026 ... and if they don't offer to call the patient's doctor for the death certificate, you call. 390 00:42:07,890 --> 00:42:11,200 Treat it all very calmly. Take your time. 391 00:42:11,400 --> 00:42:14,910 Say as little as possible to anybody. 392 00:42:15,110 --> 00:42:19,070 Just something like, "This person has been terminally ill ..." 393 00:42:19,170 --> 00:42:22,343 "... and appears to have taken their own life to avoid further suffering." 394 00:42:22,543 --> 00:42:29,760 If anybody was obliged by the patient's poor physical circumstances to actively help the death process ... 395 00:42:29,860 --> 00:42:35,880 ... then that person should no longer be in the house when the authorities come. 396 00:42:36,080 --> 00:42:41,290 Leave the patient's signed copy of Final Exit at the bedside. 397 00:42:41,490 --> 00:42:46,040 The mere presence of this book is a well-known indication to the authorities ... 398 00:42:46,140 --> 00:42:50,278 ... that this was a considered self-deliverance from a terminal illness. 399 00:42:51,340 --> 00:42:55,440 Also leave their Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care ... 400 00:42:55,540 --> 00:43:02,200 ... plus any insurance policies in plain sight, another indication of planned death. 401 00:43:02,400 --> 00:43:07,360 Well, friends, I hope this little talk has been of use to you in making plans for this. 402 00:43:07,560 --> 00:43:12,580 Enjoy the rest of your life to the fullest. We only pass this way but once. 403 00:43:12,780 --> 00:43:15,469 Take great care. Goodbye.