Gordon Roy Parker, a 57-year-old Philadelphia resident, is suing in federal court, arguing that his forced continuation of life violates constitutional protections against slavery. Parker, an experienced litigator and avid chess player, claims to suffer from terminal conditions and represents himself in this groundbreaking case.
“I planned this when I was in my 20s but I just wasn’t dying at the time,” he said in an interview. “I had a good amount of cash – well I did, it cost money to live when you’re this ill – but enough money to file it (now) so why not?”
The Medical diagnosis
Parker has not received a definitive prognosis from doctors but used ChatGPT to interpret his test results, estimating he has only six to twelve months to live. He attributes his declining health to excessive fluid buildup in his abdomen and likely end-stage liver disease.
A stash of pills or a jump in front of a train would do the trick, he acknowledges.
“I ate like a pig, smoked like a chimney and drank like a fish,” he said. “I didn’t fear death. I lived my life. I thought I’d be dead at 45 or 50 and all my organs would fail at the same time. That was just 10 years too early.”
Life and litigation
Parker’s daily life is marked by fatigue and pain, conditions that leave him looking “like a vagrant.” Despite these challenges, he refuses opioids because “they kill my chess game.” Establishing residency in states like Vermont or New Jersey, where medically assisted death is legal, is impractical due to the costs involved.
A group of Pennsylvania lawmakers introduced a new death-with-dignity bill in 2023, but it has seen no progress in the House Health Committee for over a year. Representatives Carol Hill-Evans and Tarik Khan modeled their bill after Oregon’s, emphasizing patient autonomy and safeguards against abuse.
National context
The United States is among several countries permitting medical aid in dying, with strict requirements for patient competence and sound mind. The American Medical Association has affirmed that physicians can ethically provide such treatments. Courts, too, have weighed in, with the Montana Supreme Court upholding the practice 15 years ago.
Ten states and the District of Columbia have legalized medically assisted death, with similar bills introduced in at least 19 others, including Pennsylvania. Despite previous failures, the state’s lawmakers continue to debate the contentious issue.
The on-going legal battle
Parker’s lawsuit faces significant challenges. Pennsylvania officials, including Gov. Josh Shapiro and AG Michelle Henry, argue that Parker’s case lacks merit and that they are immune from suit. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner contends that granting Parker’s request would bypass the legislative process, citing Supreme Court precedents.
Next door, New Jersey’s MAID law is also under scrutiny. Residents from neighboring states have sued New Jersey officials, arguing that residency requirements for MAID are unconstitutional. Judge Renee Marie Bumb is currently deliberating on New Jersey’s motion to dismiss the case.
Despite the legal hurdles, Parker remains steadfast. “What compelling interest does the government have in keeping me alive against my will that doesn’t violate (anti-slavery laws)?” he asked. He believes his lawsuit could pave the way for legislative action in Pennsylvania.
For now, Parker continues to play chess, symbolizing his strategic approach to life and litigation. “We know when to resign,” he said. “There comes a time when you just tilt the king over.”
