This article carries a strong message about the vulnerability of those with disabilities. In a clear case of discrimination, Christopher Derkacz, two years old and basically a healthy child, was denied intensive care because he had Down Syndrome. Christopher died. The article looks at the issue of euthanasia and makes the point that omission of treatment is an alluring step towards approval of direct killing. It questions whether given Australia's current social values, it is possible to put in place adequate safeguards to prevent us travelling down 'the slippery slope'. Keyword: Ethics