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Nelson Mandela

(55 Posts)
Bags Thu 28-Mar-13 19:21:17

Apparently the South African president has said something to the effect of Nelson Mandela, who is not well and who is very old, being in "good hands" and so "the country must not panic".

What is there to panic about? People die, even famous and historically important ones.

Grannyknot Sat 30-Mar-13 08:18:31

Greatnan sadly the ruling government in SA (including Jacob Zuma the current President) have already strayed very far from Nelson Mandela's vision. But that discussion is for another thread I think.

MiceElf that's interesting, I've learnt something new.

granjura Sat 30-Mar-13 10:37:00

The hysterics following Diana's death could't possibly compare though sad

HildaW Sat 30-Mar-13 15:05:38

Like Bags, I too find the modern reaction to someone of this age reaching the end of their life often unhelpful and slightly hysterical. We are all going to die at some point and the modern view that death should be fought against no matter the age or health of the individual concerned, troubles me.
Preserving a life - even of someone as magnificent as Nelson Mandella, must be balanced with how that is achieved and what his wishes are.
I know this subject is deeply personal but I can honestly say that I would be far happier knowing that my family would let me drift off gently if I lived this long than be subjected to a lot of medical intervention that would only postphone the inevitable, by probably a few months.

Bags Sat 30-Mar-13 18:35:52

Dignity in Dying is the South African version of the Swiss Dignitas. At least, they would like it to be. I think they are still campaigning for changes in the law. Good luck to them.