09/06/2025
This is an extensive conversation regarding MAiD .
I am sharing this again, because I just re-watched/listen to it, and I was very happy with the answers that each of the panelists gave, and how beautifully this conversation flowed. If you missed it the first time, I thought I would give you another opportunity to listen. ❤️
Thank you to everyone who signed up for my recent panel discussion on Medical Aid in Dying (MAID). We were honored to have over 300 people register and nearly half join us live for an honest and meaningful conversation. For those who couldn’t attend, I don’t want you to miss out, you can still watch the full recording at your convenience.
Here is the link to the recording:
https://www.thehospiceheart.net/panel-recording?
I support Medical Aid in Dying because I support autonomy. I support the right for every person to have a voice in their care, especially at the end of life. I support the right to choose peace over pain. To me, this option is not about death, it is about compassion. It is about honoring life, even in its final moments, by ensuring it can end with dignity. And even if we hold different beliefs, may we never let those differences cause us to turn away from the people we love. At the end of the day, what matters most is that we do not walk away from someone simply because our beliefs do not align.
Please feel free to share the recording with anyone who might find comfort, clarity, or support in it. During the discussion, I also read a poem that speaks to the heart of why I continue these conversations. My hope is that it reflects both the intention behind the panel and my deep commitment to this work.
We Will Not Walk Away
By Gabrielle Elise Jimenez (Gabby)
When someone has received a terminal diagnosis,
and they’ve been told they have less time
what this translates most to them, is that
they have been moved to the front of the line
A line no one wants to stand in
a line that can often bring fear
a line that changes everything for them
and lets them know that death is near
So many things are taken from them
most importantly, their autonomy and choice
leaving them dependent on everyone and everything
no longer having a voice
So, if given an opportunity to say goodbye to pain,
to end their suffering, and to feel free again
they need to know we support them
that we will not walk away
they need to know that whatever they choose
we are here to stay
I am thankful to the panelists; Gary Pasternak, Lisa Pahl, and Paul Fullmer, and for Leah for being so awesome with the audience questions and keeping the chat organized.
I hope you enjoy the recording.
With love,
Gabby
Dignity Day: https://a.co/d/8CatQMG
The Death Deck: http://www.thedeathdeck.com
