How to die : Simon's choice.

This programme follows the story of Simon Binner, who was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Motor Neurone Disease, and who wanted to make plans for an assisted suicide at a facility in Switzerland. Home footage of Simon’s family, as well as clips of radio broadcasts discussing the ethics surrounding assisted suicide are played throughout the programme. Simon’s wife Debbie recounts receiving the news of Simon’s diagnosis. Simon’s family talk about how he and his family have been affected since losing his voice. Simon talks about how his diagnosis has changed his outlook on life. Consultant Neurologist Professor Ammar Al-Chalabi explains how Motor Neurone Disease progresses. Simon and Debbie discuss their feelings towards assisted death. Dr Erika Preisig, who works for Life Circle in Switzerland, explains the procedure for accepting a patient for assisted suicide. She exhibits the anaesthetic used for the procedure. Debbie talks about her daughter, who died of a rare bone cancer. She compares her daughter’s death to the one planned by her husband. Simon’s close friend and colleague, Will Watson, talks about his feelings towards Simon’s plan. Simon and Debbie are shown meeting with Preisig to discuss the organisation of his assisted suicide. Simon’s mother then talks about her feelings towards Simon's plan. His friends also recount memories of their friendship with Simon, and talk about how his planned death is affecting them. Audio and video clips are played of the discussion in the House of Commons concerning a bill to legalise assisted suicide, as well as contemporary public protests. Social Worker Julie Shelton at St Christopher’s Hospice discusses Simon’s referral to her unit. Al-Chalabi explains non-invasive ventilation. Preisig reads aloud an email correspondence between Simon, Debbie, and herself, regarding formally arranging his assisted suicide, following a failed suicide attempt by Simon. He and Debbie organise a party with friends to say their goodbyes. Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders explains the laws surrounding assisted suicide in the UK. Dr Linner visits Simon and Debbie the night before the procedure, to make a final decision on whether Simon is capable of carrying out his assisted suicide. Simon’s assisted suicide is shown. His funeral is then shown.