Editor,
I am a strong proponent of medical assistance in dying (MAID) in Canada.
My husband was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in April, 2022.
The trauma and heartache our family experienced up to the time of his death in August, 2022 was monumental – our whole lives felt completely out of control – as the cancer grew (and) my husband’s capacities lessened.
He applied for MAID and was approved.
Knowing he would not suffer at his end of life – knowing that we would have time to be able to do and say what we needed to – offered solace, comfort and peace of mind in the middle of very trying times. We were able to relax into the certainty and embrace the time we had.
The MAID team was so caring and professional.
I understand the MAID option is not everyone’s choice but for those who want autonomy at their end of life, I am extremely thankful we have the choice in Canada.
We now need the government to act on legalizing advance requests for MAID so we can put in writing when we would like to receive MAID if we lose capacity.
Ann Bryce, White Rock