A tragic case has sparked widespread concern and heated discussion in the Chinese Canadian community.
According to the husband's description, the wife had no abnormalities in the physical examination in August this year, but began to feel unwell in October. On November 9, he was referred to Winnipeg Medical Centre (HSC) after being suspected of tuberculosis or pneumonia. On November 17, doctors diagnosed her with advanced lung adenocarcinoma, which had spread beyond surgery.
At first, doctors tried targeted drug treatment, but it didn't take long for his wife's condition to deteriorate dramatically, and she developed heart and other multi-organ failure. On November 28, doctors declared the condition hopeless and recommended that treatment be abandoned and turned to hospice care. Despite repeated requests from the husband to continue treatment, the wife passed away two days later.
The experience left her husband feeling helpless and distressed. He questioned why the hospital failed to diagnose and treat the patient in a timely manner, and recommended "euthanasia" after only 13 days. Some netizens questioned the way the Canadian healthcare system operates, believing that there are many flaws and deficiencies.
However, experienced doctors have a different opinion on this. They explained that the doctor's clinical judgment was prudent and humane, considering the overall condition of the patient and the degree of cancer development at that time.
Blind treatment will not only not help, but will only increase the patient's suffering. The purpose of hospice care is to alleviate the physical and mental suffering of the patient and to respect his wishes.
This case has triggered people's in-depth thinking on the topic of "euthanasia". Canada does allow "euthanasia" under certain conditions, but the specific operation process needs to be strictly reviewed and regulated to prevent abuse. At the same time, patients and their relatives should also have the right to be fully informed about medical decisions.
The essence of the doctor-patient relationship is mutual understanding and trust. In this case, the lack of communication had a tragic outcome. Hospitals may be able to improve the process and improve the quality of communication between doctors and patients.
Families should also be open to professional advice rather than resting on their laurels.
Critical illness is not only a test of life itself, but also a test of the emotional bond between people. In the face of the end of life, in addition to medical judgment, we should pay more attention to the spiritual needs of patients and their relatives. A failed treatment does not mean a complete failure in life, and when there is still hope for life, we should move forward with hope.