Hospice patient meets Richard Dawkins for new documentary (From Basildon Recorder)

Hospice patient meets Richard Dawkins for new documentary

3:00pm Tuesday 23rd October 2012 in News

A FAIR Havens Hospice patient is set to appear in a documentary hosted by the famous evolutionary biologist and atheist, Richard Dawkins.

Richard Chell, 64, from Rayleigh, will feature on the second episode of Dawkins: Sex, Death and the Meaning Of Life on Monday, October 22.

In the series, Dawkins explores what, in place of religion, science can tell us about death. Mr Chell, a Latter Day Saint by faith, has been visiting Fair Havens Hospice, in West Cliff, for respite care since 2009 after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

Dawkins wanted to meet someone living with a life-limiting illness and find out how their approach and attitudes to life and, in particular, death had changed since diagnosis.

Mr Chell said: “We may hold opposing views, but on a personal level, I found him to be a very thoughtful, kind man who made every effort to make me feel comfortable.

“Dawkins talked about his views on life after death and I talked about mine. Because I have a faith, the idea of dying doesn’t bother me at all - it’s just all part of a plan.

“We held very different conclusions, but did hold some common ground too.”

The show will be on More4 at 10pm and also includes interviews with Ricky Gervais and geneticist James Watson.

For more information about Havens Hospices call 01702 220350 or visit havenshospices.org.uk