I wanted to share this exchange with a woman whose friend on death row has given up his appeals.
Dear Sister Helen,
I’m writing you, because I have a big problem with a friend of mine. He’s on Texas death row, and is a volunteer for execution.
I have great difficulty in accepting his choice, but his lawyer said everything is ok. At first, when I read about this, I thought he was trying to commit suicide; the whole thing sounds like a cry for help.
But, his lawyer, to whom I wrote, said for two years my friend has been trying to give up the appeals, and during all this time, the lawyer has been trying to change his mind. His lawyer says that there is nothing left to do, and the only thing I can do is continue to stay by his side, writing letters to make him more and more comfortable in meeting his death.
It’s the first time I have been in this situation, and I am really confused and divided. On the one hand I think I should respect his will, but on the other I’m not sure he is completely sane (even if the court says he is).
So, now it’s time I start to write him, but what? My heart says try to stop him, reason says follow him…
I know this is a big problem, but I really need help to find the answer…
Thank you in advance.
Stefania
And my response:
Dear Stefania,
It is very difficult to know what to do, and because your relationship is confined to letter writing, that restricts your influence quite a bit. It’s such a big, life-death decision…. Is it possible for you to visit face to face? If not, express your appreciation for his personal worth and thank him for the gift he has been in your life and assure him of your prayers.
Know that I am carrying you and him in my prayer.
Love, Sister Helen
Dear Sr Prejean,
My name is Gemma Uyleman and I’m living in the Netherlands and I’m involved with a (Penpal)Death Row Inmate from Florida.since july 2008.
The Governor did sign a Death Warrant for this Inmate on 7th oktober 2009 and he’s on Death Watch since. according to the ‘íf neccesairy’ execution on 4th november 2009. Paul(his name) is in the local news of florida at the moment, a Deputy is urging Paul’s execution out of dispair.and the Governor just signed his Request.
I’ and many lovedones are praying for a STAY because My Penpal didn’t finish his Appeals yet,.
I’ve booked a flight to visit my Penpal for the first time and to support him in some way,he is all alone, doesn’t have anyone to rely on.
My visit with him will possible be a Welcome as a Say- Goodbye Visit, Paul asked me to accompany him at his last 3-hours Visit before the possible Execution by his letters to me ,because I asked him what he does wish when he willl be executed in time,Paul is on Death Row since 1981 (28 years )
I’m very confused lately and I’m not familiar with the emotions of a Inmate on Death Row as well as Death Watch .not speaking of my emotions right now.
Please would You be so kind to give me some Support in this Horrible situation, You did experience the emotions and the grief of this Unhuman treathment on DR.
I’m anxious to Your response
Please send me an email very soon,I will leave on
29th oktober to Florida
God Bless You
Kind Regards
Gemma Uyleman
Hello Sis. Helen,
I just want to say thank you for all the good work you are doing to get the word out to the world about us death row inmates and how folks can fight this death machine.
As you know i am still in the fight against the death penalty as one of the only guilty person who is out of prison and telling the world.
we have a new movie call Execution out now and it has been shown at colleges around the country and each time it is seen, it changes people views and their support for the death penalty to against it and just want to thank you, that we are following in your foot steps, much Love.
Billy Moore
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