Letter from North Dakota
July 30, 2001
To Whom It May Concern:
I am an Associate Degree LPN with ten years of Geriatric/ Psychiatric experience. I have also lost a family member to a terminal illness (lung cancer.) I do not live in Utah and I do not know Dr. Weitzel personally, but I have become familiar with his situation. I would hope that you take the time to listen to my insight, which comes from training and experience.
As a nurse I have seen numerous cases of dementia and psychiatric behaviors (which are often harmful to self and others) in addition to other health problems in patients, as well as death and dying. Dying unfortunately is not always quick and painless.
I have studied Dr. Weitzel’s records as well as the nurse’s notes, and living wills. He did not cause death in these patients; the health problems that they suffered caused their death. Dr. Weitzel simply offered pain relief and comfort for these terminal elderly patients.
Very sick and elderly patients are entitled to the best modes of pain control, but are often unable to communicate these needs. Therefore visual cues are important, such as yelling, moaning, restlessness, crying etc. Careful administration of pain medications is not illegal. The dosage of medication administered was clearly within the therapeutic and acceptable range. Furthermore it is a great comfort for patients who are suffering and the family members who on a daily basis witness this suffering, to have compassionate and attentive physicians involved in a loved one's care.
I sympathize with the family members of these patients. Death of a loved one is devastating and difficult enough to understand. And the current situation makes it more difficult. I do believe however that Dr. Weitzel was acting in a competent, compassionate and legal manner while treating patients with chronic and end stage illnesses.
Sincerely;
Chris Himmelspach - Mandan, North Dakota.