But it is not the highest good. We believe that it is our obligation to be compassionate and to relieve suffering, but not at any expense. Contrary to some views within our contemporary society, happiness is not what life is all about. And suffering is not the ultimate evil to be avoided at all costs. Indeed, it could be argued that one of the most meaningful acts within someone s life is in how he or she deals with suffering in the face of death.
Palliative care can improve the quantity and quality of one s remaining life.
Formerly unattainable goals may become attainable. Beyond physical and psychological comfort, spiritual comfort is an important goal of hospice care. Physician assisted suicide obliterates the opportunity to transcend suffering and find meaning also in the existence of one s relationship with self and loved ones. Hospice provides a wonderful setting for the terminally ill and their loved ones. This type of care is ethically responsible and distinctly different from the administration of a drug whose primary intent is to end life.