“Whether for or against, the fact remains that as a Canadian it is your right to have a medically assisted death,” says Jason Jardine, one of the event organizers. “I never gave this much thought when the law changed back in 2016 but after having stood by my friend’s side this past fall and winter as he faced a terminal illness, and ultimately ended his life on his terms through MAiD, I learned many things…that this is an alternative…that pain and suffering isn’t necessarily necessary…and that while it is sad to lose someone you love, they can die with dignity.”
Cape Breton resident Weldon Bona chose to die on his terms by accessing Medical Assistance in Dying (M.A.I.D.) this past January. His journey of navigating the system and securing a date and time was not as straightforward as expected prompting him to go public with his story. His experience has motivated a group of friends to organize a public information session to help local citizens and professionals learn more about M.A.I.D.
The session will take place at the Royal Bank Lecture Theatre at Cape Breton University on April 26th. The agenda will include panels discussing legal rights and issues, and accessing and understanding the Nova Scotia M.A.I.D. program. A third panel, consisting of Weldon Bona’s friends, will share insight into the man behind the story and of being with him throughout his journey. A question period will follow the panels. The event will run from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Panelists will include Hon. James Cowan, Jocelyn Downie Q.C., and Dr. Robyn MacQuarrie. Joella Foulds and Gail Rudderham Chernin Q.C. will moderate the session.
Get the Facts on Medical Assistance in Dying (M.A.I.D.) during a public information session on Thursday, April 26, at Cape Breton University. This session is intended to inform and educate all citizens on the topic of medical assistance in dying. All interested members of the public are encouraged and welcome to attend.
