Letter: Refusing transfusion

Sir: The article 'Critically ill woman seeks right to die' (23 July) is factually incorrect, misleading and offensive to Jehovah's Witnesses, who are not 'against the use of artificial means to preserve life'. Rather, they gladly accept all medical treatment necessary, except the transfusion of blood or blood components.

By refusing blood transfusion, Jehovah's Witnesses do not try to exercise 'a right to die'. They ask for medical treatment without the use of blood. As a Jehovah's Witness, I will fight to stay alive and will use the best medical technology available, but not blood. I hope I find a co-operative doctor.

Yours sincerely,

PATRICK BOYCE

Sandbach, Cheshire

23 July