I have long felt that belief in life after death was just arrogant wishful thinking. Fortunately, early in my student days at Imperial College in 1971, I discovered The British Humanist Association where I found others who also chose to live a caring but rational, evidence-based life.

I have always been conscious of my mortality due to the premature death of my ancestors; I never met either Grandfather, one Grandmother died at 65, my Mother at 55, and Father at 73.

I have led an active and stimulating life and try to make every day count. What I most value in life are my family and friends. Simple pleasures, like dog-walking with grandchildren through woods by a river, provide much joy whatever the season.

Now, approaching 70 years, I am aware of my declining health. I do not fear death as I do not expect to be aware of anything afterwards. What I do fear is life without quality and a lingering and possibly painful death.

Some years ago, I joined EXIT, formerly known as the Scottish Euthanasia Society, where I learned how I could plan the end of my life, simply, without suffering or traumatising loved ones. This knowledge continues to empower me in the belief that I could have control over the end of my life.

I will be satisfied that after I die, I will live on in the memories of those I loved.