D.C. Awaits Mayor to Approve 'Death With Dignity' Bill

BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- Maryland lawmakers are expected to make another attempt to pass end of life legislation in the coming legislative session. In the meantime, a similar bill is having success in Washington D.C.

The bill allows D.C. residents 18-years-old and older to apply to get medication to end their life if they have six months or less to live.

Former journalist and professional photographer Mary Klein hopes to continue to lead a long and cherished life. But she has terminal ovarian cancer.

"I don't know how long I have to live but I'm doing everything I can to extend my life," said Klein.

She's endured arduous chemotherapy treatments and a radical surgery so aggressive her body is now breaking down.

"This is a losing battle and when I have just a few months more left to live I'd like the option of a peaceful death," she said.

Tuesday D.C. council passed a death with dignity bill. If the legislation gets final approval Klein says she would consider getting the medication needed to end her life.

"I'm not afraid of dying but I really want to do it on my own terms," said Klein.

Council member Mary Chen, the bill's sponsor, says safeguards are in place to prevent abuse. Two doctors must ensure the patient has less than 6 months to live, is over 18, is mentally competent and is aware of other options. In addition the patient is prescribed medication that is self-administered.

"Nobody has to do this. It's completely the patient's choice. The patient could change his or her mind at any time, said Cheh.

Mary Klein spent a career capturing life's complexities and beauty. She knows what it is to live and now would like a say in how she dies.

"I don't want to be in a coma. I want to be with loved ones. I want to be coherent and so we will see how that goes," said Klein.

The bill now goes before the District of Columbia mayor who reportedly will not veto it.

Colorado voters passed an assisted suicide law last week, joining five other states with similar laws.

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