LETTERS:Facts about MND

From Mr George Levvy Sir: Your article about the TV programme showing the Dutch patient who chose euthanasia ("The doctor prescribes death", 1 February) contains inaccuracies that may cause unnecessary fear and distress to readers who have or care for someone with ALS (better known as Motor Neurone Disease in the UK).

Firstly, the writer states that a patient with MND faces "an excruciating death by suffocation". This is false. Though MND is a terminal condition, it need never involve death by suffocation. Breathing difficulties may occur from time to time during the progression of the disease, but the final stages of MND are usually peaceful and dignified.

Similarly, MND should in no way be seen as a "slow and lingering torture". With the current advances in palliative care, much is being done by the MND Association to ensure all those affected by MND can live with dignity throughout the course of their lives. It must be stressed also that lung transplants have absolutely no place in the treatment of MND.

Yours sincerely, George Levvy Chief Executive Motor Neurone Disease Association Northampton 1 February