“ The difference is dying probably quickly and painlessly as opposed to a very slow agonizing death.”
Yes, it does seem to be about maintaining a sense of control over “how” we go. Each person seems to have their own take on that, given what they have heard, experienced or read, and who they trust as a reliable expert. That may be a parent, doctor or minister, or authoritative book to name a few. I have heard it said that “resistance to pain is suffering”, and that pain is part of life. So the question arises in my mind, “Is resistance to pain resistance to life itself?” And, “Does acceptance of pain provide us with a different perspective on life? These are questions I think we each must face as we progress on our journey.