Title: The Untold Story of Markus Schouten’s Fight Against Child Assisted Suicide In an era where assisted suicide has become increasingly accepted in many parts of the world, it may come as a shock to learn that children are now being targeted by this movement. This is the story of Canadian teenager Markus Schouten and his fight against child-assisted suicide. Diagnosed with terminal cancer at just 15 years old, Markus’s dying wish was for no child to be forced into choosing between life and death. In spring 2022, Markus learned that he would not survive the year. His oncologist broke the devastating news to him and his family in a hospital room at British Columbia Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, Canada. The family held each other, weeping as they tried to come to terms with their son’s impending death. Determined to make a difference even from beyond the grave, Markus dictated a letter to the Canadian Parliament’s Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying. This committee was established after Canada legalized assisted suicide in 2016 and aimed at setting guidelines for this new law. In his final message, Markus opposed lobbying efforts that sought to expand the law to include children under the age of 18. “That’s because life is worth living and we should always work to alleviate suffering without eliminating the sufferer,” read the letter signed by his parents. The Schoutens believed strongly in this philosophy, stating that “Life is worth living, even when we are dying.” A month after penning this heartfelt plea, Markus passed away surrounded by family and friends who were told, “See you in paradise.” His parents, Mike and Jennifer Schouten, have since taken up the mantle of their son’s legacy. They now work alongside a global network of advocates to block efforts that would allow ‘mature minors’ the right to choose assisted suicide. The implications of this movement are far-reaching and potentially devastating for society as a whole. If children can be targeted by an assisted suicide movement, then who is next? This issue raises serious questions about our values, ethics, and how we treat vulnerable members of our community. It’s crucial that we continue to have conversations around these topics so that we can ensure the protection of all lives, regardless of age or circumstance. In conclusion, Markus Schouten’s story serves as a powerful reminder of why it is essential to fight against child-assisted suicide. His courageous stand against this movement has inspired many others worldwide who are now working tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable among us from being targeted by such practices. It is our responsibility to carry on his legacy and ensure that every life, no matter how short or difficult, is valued and protected.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.foxnews.com/world/untold-damage-global-assisted-suicide-movement-targets-children)
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