Roland Halpern from the national organization Compassion and Choices will discuss the history of “the right to die on our own terms” Thursday as part of Fort Lewis College’s Life Long Learning Series.

The lecture coincides with what Denver politicos anticipate will be a big week for the “death with dignity” movement, with many expecting state Rep. Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, to introduce legislation that would allow physicians to prescribe death-inducing levels of medication to terminally ill patients.

Similar legislation already exists in five states, including Oregon.

Proponents of the law say it will provide those suffering incredibly with some measure of control over their lives: determining how, and when, they will end.

Opponents argue such legislation might open the door to relatives and caretakers pressuring terminally ill patients into ending their lives.

Halpern will speak from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday in Nobel Hall, Room 130.

cmcallister@durangoherald.com