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Family set up fund in memory of Tony Nicklinson

The family of Tony Nicklinson have set up a charity fund in his memory. His widow Jane and daughters Lauren and Beth are raising money for the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases in Bath. The hospital specialises in treating people with chronic conditions.

Tony Nickinson dies at home

by Robert Murphy

It was a peaceful end to a very uncomfortable battle for Tony Nicklinson.

He had campaigned unsuccessfully for the right-to-die since being paralysed by a stroke in 2005. This morning he died of natural causes at his home in Melksham, surrounded by his family.

His final message was simple: "Goodbye world, the time has come."

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Anti-euthanasia group offers condolences to Nicklinson's family

An anti-euthanasia group which welcomed the High Court's ruling last week has offered its condolences to the family of Tony Nicklinson:

We offer our condolences to Mr Nicklinson’s family and friends. We note reports that his death was peaceful and while surrounded by his loved ones.

– Paul Tully, general secretary of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC)

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Locked-in syndrome

People with locked-in syndrome are usually completely paralysed, and are unable to speak or move.

  • Sufferers can think and reason and can generally move their eyes
  • The disorder can follow a traumatic brain injury, such as a massive stroke
  • Although there is no cure, therapy such as functional neuromuscular stimulation can sometimes benefit victims by activating some of the paralysed muscles

Nicklinson's death 'not a matter for police or the coroner'

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said the force would not be investigating Mr Nicklinson's death:

Police are not involved at all. We can confirm he passed away and it is not a matter for Wiltshire Police.

His death certificate has been signed by a doctor, so it is not a matter for Wiltshire Police or the coroner.

– Wiltshire Police spokesman
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