The medical suicide law helps the terminally ill to end their lives if they choose to. A former Vermont legislator and the leader of the House majority died using the law he helped pass.
Medical suicide law legislator dies using the law
On January 12, Willem Jewett died in his home at the age of 58. About a year ago, Jewett was diagnosed with mucosal melanoma. Before his demise, the legislator helped in making a change to the 2013 law. The medical suicide law makes it easier for the terminally ill to get a prescription and navigate the options. “It is very Willem fashion to still be pushing for legislation that he believed in and using his ability to advocate for people,” stated Abigail Jewett, his daughter.
The competitive cyclist and lawyer served in Vermont House between 2003 and 2016. He was famous for his energy, intelligence, and humor. Additionally, he was also famous for cycling over 50 miles to the statehouse during the annual earth day ride. He became the assistant majority leader in 2011 and later went to become the majority leader. “He lived life as if there wasn’t a moment to spare. In the Legislature, he was great to work with, very smart, and definitely had a feisty side,” said Shao Smith, House Speaker.
More about the life of Willem Jewett:
After the final approval of the medical suicide law, Jewett said, “I’ve listened to all these stories. Very personal stories and I respect every single one of them”. “We all get to remain true to our guideposts at the end of our life,” added the then majority leader. “He just wanted to add his voice, which is incredibly powerful because he has this dual role as a legislator and a patient, a person near the end of life, who’s making choices,” said Betsy Walkerman. Walkerman is the president of a nonprofit organization known as Patient Choices Vermont.
He was crucial in helping with organizing the bull and ensuring that it had enough votes. he also worked with the senators for getting all the support needed.