A mother of two facing her fifth recurrence of incurable breast cancer has expressed frustration over delays in legalizing assisted dying, feeling let down by opponents in the House of Lords.

Christie Arntsen, 58, residing near Whitney, voiced her dismay at what she deemed an undemocratic process in the House of Lords. Although a majority of MPs had approved assisted dying legalization last year by 314 to 291, the bill has hit a roadblock in the Lords due to alleged filibustering by a small group of opposing peers.

In an interview with The Mirror, Arntsen criticized the Lords’ interference with the legislation passed by elected MPs. She questioned the undemocratic nature of the delay and expressed her disappointment at the situation.

The proposed law aims to permit terminally ill adults in England and Wales, with less than six months to live, to seek an assisted death after approval from two doctors and a panel comprising a social worker, senior legal figure, and psychiatrist.

Arntsen, diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, dismissed concerns about a supposed slippery slope for disabled individuals, clarifying that they would not be eligible for assisted dying under the law. She highlighted the lack of empathy from some peers staunchly opposed to assisted dying.

She stressed the importance of having the option of an assisted death, emphasizing how it could have altered her outlook on her recent diagnosis. Arntsen regretted the delays caused by a few peers, feeling robbed of hope and the joy that came with the prospect of assisted dying becoming a reality.

Reflecting on the historic vote by MPs, Arntsen lamented the lack of consideration and seriousness in the Lords’ handling of the legislation, attributing her dashed hopes to filibustering tactics and unnecessary obstacles imposed by a minority of peers.