ST. PAUL, MN – On Wednesday, March 16, Rep. Jon Koznick, R-Lakeville, joined his constituent, Elizabeth Bakewicz, to oppose a Senate bill (SF 1880) to legalize “assisted suicide” for terminally ill patients. Thanks in part to the testimony of Elizabeth Bakewicz, the bill’s chief author withdrew it from committee consideration.
“Elizabeth is a shining example why we need to protect life at all stages,” said Koznick. “Her gripping testimony and the author's subsequent withdrawal of this bill shows that sometimes it’s not what we pass in the Legislature, but what we fight to protect. We believe that every person has potential and intrinsic value, regardless of ability or condition. As a society, we need to celebrate and protect life. ‘Assisted suicide’ and similar legislation is horrible public policy. I’m so proud of Elizabeth and her desire and courage to take a whole day to share her story and faith. She made a difference!”
Elizabeth was diagnosed with a cancer tumor in her brain in 2008 and was given a terminal prognosis of three to five years to live in 2009. She also has epilepsy and Graves' Disease. During the last seven years, she has battled her medical conditions and became a mother for the second time.
Her four-minute testimony is available online at this link starting at the 10 minute mark.
