Navigating the Heart Wrenching Decision of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)

Deciding about Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is one of the most difficult and personal decisions a person or their family can face. It involves deep emotions, complex ethical questions, and many practical considerations. If you or a loved one are thinking about MAID, it’s important to approach this choice with care, understanding, and support.

At Authentic Living London, we believe that everyone deserves to be heard and supported during this time. This guide offers compassionate information about what MAID involves, how to cope with the emotional weight of the decision, and where to find help.

What is Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)?

MAID is a legal option in Canada for eligible adults who are suffering from a grievous and irremediable medical condition. It allows a person to choose to end their life peacefully with medical support. The decision to pursue MAID is deeply personal and reflects an individual’s values, beliefs, and experiences.

Understanding the Emotional Complexity

Choosing MAID can bring a mix of feelings: relief, sadness, fear, guilt, anger, or even peace. It’s common to feel conflicted or overwhelmed. Family members may experience grief before the loss even happens, known as anticipatory grief.

It’s important to recognize these emotions as natural. You don’t have to navigate them alone. Talking openly with loved ones, spiritual advisors, or mental health professionals can provide comfort and clarity.

Practical Considerations

• Eligibility: MAID requires meeting specific legal criteria, including consent capacity and prognosis. Medical professionals guide this process carefully.

• Planning: Many people choose to plan for MAID with support from healthcare teams, family, and counselors to ensure the person’s wishes are honoured.

• Legal and Ethical Questions: Some people struggle with ethical or spiritual questions. Respecting diverse perspectives is vital in this process.

Coping Strategies for You and Your Family

• Allow Yourself to Feel: All emotions are valid; there’s no “right” way to feel.

• Seek Support: Professional counseling can help individuals and families process this difficult journey.

• Create Meaningful Moments: Spending time together, sharing memories, or creating rituals can foster connection.

• Take Care of Practical Needs: Managing care logistics and planning helps reduce stress.

Where to Find Help

If you or your family need support, consider reaching out to:

• Palliative care teams

• Grief counselors

• Spiritual or faith leaders

• Support groups for families facing end-of-life decisions

Social Worker, Jeanette Leroux, specializes in grief and MAID counselling

At Authentic Living London, Jeanette Leroux offers compassionate support for individuals and families facing the profound decision of Medical Assistance in Dying. With deep empathy and experience, Jeanette provides a safe space to explore emotions, values, and concerns surrounding this journey.

Jeanette works alongside clients to help process anticipatory grief, navigate complex feelings, and find meaning during this challenging time. Her gentle guidance and listening presence create comfort and clarity when it’s needed most.

If you or your loved ones are considering MAID and want supportive counselling, Jeanette is available for confidential sessions both in-person in London, Ontario, and virtually.

The choice around Medical Assistance in Dying is deeply personal and heart wrenching. Whatever your path, you deserve compassion, respect, and support. At Authentic Living London, we are here to walk alongside you with empathy and care during this profound time.

If you would like compassionate support to help you or your family navigate this decision, please reach out to us for a confidential consultation.

Final Thoughts

The choice around Medical Assistance in Dying is deeply personal and heart wrenching. Whatever your path, you deserve compassion, respect, and support. At Authentic Living London, we are here to walk alongside you with empathy and care during this profound time.

If you would like compassionate support to help you or your family navigate this decision, please reach out to us for a confidential consultation.