Ep 11. The Suicide Tourist

In Frontline Season 28 Episode 11, titled The Suicide Tourist, the show explores the controversial and complex topic of assisted suicide. The episode centers around the story of Craig Ewert, a man suffering from ALS who chooses to end his life with the assistance of Dignitas, a Swiss organization that provides euthanasia services to foreigners. Through interviews with Ewert's family, Dignitas employees, and medical professionals, the episode delves into the moral, legal, and emotional implications of assisted suicide.

The episode begins with Ewert and his wife, Mary, recounting the devastating effects of ALS, a degenerative neurological disease that slowly paralyzes the body. Ewert describes his daily struggles with basic tasks such as breathing and eating, and the toll it takes on his mental health. He explains his decision to end his life rather than continue living in unbearable pain and loss of dignity. The audience is introduced to Dignitas, a controversial organization that has assisted over 2,000 people with suicide since its founding in 1998. The organization's founder, Ludwig Minelli, explains his belief that people have the right to end their lives on their own terms, and Dignitas provides a safe and humane way to do so.

The episode then turns to the legal and ethical implications of assisted suicide. While it is legal in Switzerland, assisted suicide is illegal in most countries, including the United States. The audience hears from lawyers on both sides of the debate, who argue over issues of individual autonomy, the sanctity of life, and the role of the medical profession. Medical professionals also weigh in on the issue, with some arguing that it is a violation of the Hippocratic Oath for doctors to assist in suicide. Others argue that the primary goal of medicine should be to relieve suffering, even if that means helping patients end their lives.

The episode also looks at the emotional toll that assisted suicide takes on loved ones. Ewert's family is torn between respecting his wishes and the pain of knowing he will no longer be with them. Mary struggles with her role as his caretaker and wife, and the decision to support his choice to die. The audience hears from other families who have utilized Dignitas' services and the mixed emotions that come with the decision to say goodbye to a loved one.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a variety of perspectives on the issue of assisted suicide. The show does not try to sway the audience one way or the other, instead, it lays out the various arguments and emotions that come with the topic. The Suicide Tourist is a thought-provoking and moving exploration of a topic that is often difficult and highly debated. It challenges viewers to confront their own beliefs on death, suffering, and autonomy, and leaves them with a deeper understanding of the complex issues that surround assisted suicide.