DO not be lead into the foolish notion that dying by withholding food and drink and medication is dying with dignity (Echo, Feb 4).

This is the exact opposite of dying with dignity.

Withdrawal of fluids especially causes great distress and promotes a painful death. In fact, it causes death by starvation.

This is a most inhumane way of dying. It is cruel for the patient.

Relatives will not be allowed to give a drink or help relieve any suffering, especially if the patient has signed a statement saying this is how they wish to die.

Please be careful not to let yourselves or your relatives be deceived by what appears to be compassionate care.

Ann McKenna, Sedgefield.