In Response to: Lesley’s Story

Published online November 30, 2016

My heart goes out to Lesley McAllister ’91 and her family (cover story, Sept. 14), and like her I also have an end-game plan though mine is a simple gas rather than “the drug of choice,” secobarbital. A simple timer, solenoid, and valve will flood a bedroom with common CO2 while I sleep, for a sleep from which I never wake. As Ms. McAllister points out, the residual lump of flesh is the awkward part of the otherwise simple plan. My main concern is not the approval of any government – I  could care less; but it is the timing that is tricky. You want to say that last “good night” before the mental and physical capacity (including, God forbid, incontinence) prevents the undertaking (so to speak). My prayers go out to the McAllisters’ family and friends. Amen.

Rocky Semmes ’79
Alexandria, Va.