Witnessing a Patient Choose to Die
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- Опубликовано: 20 окт 2024
- Recently, I was witness to a patient deciding to take Medication to end their life as part of the the California End of Life Option Act (EOLOA).
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My dad died in my arms. He didn’t use the end of life stuff, he had medication removed and was given morphine. After they withdrew the medication that kept his heart beating he was conscious for a while, then the morphine kicked in and he fell asleep. It took a few hours. One of my brothers was there too. I just kept my arms around his shoulders until I felt his life slip away. There’s a real sensation when that happens. It’s sort of an electric feeling or like warm fine grain sand slipping through your fingers.
That is so interesting!
Thank you for sharing, sorry for your loss...
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I shall forever remember your description of how the energy leaves the body
So sorry for your loss, anne. I love that you kept your arms around his shoulders until and as he passed. He knew you were there. May he rest peacefully.
My 91 year old mother , with no dementia or chronic disease, a few mobility issues, and having viewed her life in assisted care after about a year , decided she no longer wanted to be alive and stopped eating and drinking fluids . It took her about a week to pass. Living is difficult, dying shouldn’t be! Thank you nurse Julie, your stoic demeanor is reassuring!
Love her videos too. Not sure stoic is the right word. She's very honest and straightforward, but heartfelt and genuine. I'm very sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. Prayers to you and your family!!
My darling mother gradually stopped eating. I was horrified that she was going to starve to death emaciated. Thankfully the option in Care was to start her on life ending medication. It broke my heart to make that decision though.
The exact same thing with my Dad. He decided he was done with fighting COPD. Turned his cellphone off and stopped eating and drinking. 5 days later he passed away
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@@debbiewilliams3363maybe if the health care was BETTER for all citizens, not just the rich, in this COUNTRY, he would have wanted to go on LIVING. In the USA the elderly are not wanted. You need to be wanted and loved. A cat can help you go on. Wish we had a healthcare system that would not be so intent on negligent care, if you can call it that.
I'm from Germany, here it's illegal. But my mom asked for strong morphine in a palliative hospital in her last week with lung cancer. The doctor gave it to her and she died peacefully. I was with her, praying.
Hi Barbara, in fact, it's not illegal. But you need the help of a Sterbehilfeverein, who provides you the deadly drugs and you have to take them by yourself. I have terminal cancer and am so happy to have this last emergency exit for me. Best wishes, Beate
So it’s a type of work around?
My wife recently passed away from Sarcoma (aged 33) she was in horrific pain and begging for end of life medication, in our country the process takes over a week, and while she passed before she got to that point, I cannot imagine anyone demanding she should have lingered in that pain longer just because of their personal religious beliefs
I agree, and I’m so sorry for your loss 😪
I send you my condolences. I feel the same as you regarding the choice to end one's life.
I know if I was suffering I would want to go also what's the point if you are suffering RIPAll!
I agree!
I'm sorry for your loss. Sending love, prayers, and light. ❤
Thanks Julie, you're not only helping people understand the death of loved ones. You're also helping everyone to not fear their own death.
Only those that are sure they will die very soon understand fully how precious life is. If you went to the grave of a rich man or a king and said do you want to trade your fortune but you could live some extra years even if it meant seeing doctors everyday and being in bed most of the time, they would instantly say Yes. Life is mostly about experiencing your surroundings like seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting etc and a dead man would give everything just to have those experiences again. No amount of pain or suffering beats those experiences. Always choose life if you can.
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Until I know where they go after death , I'm afraid of dying nomatter the route. Death is such an irreversible end.
Thanks a lot for all you have been teaching us.
Thank you Julie. I’m in Canada and a former registered nurse. I’m on cancer #3,…2 others that I had chemo & radiation for but this time, it’s an incurable metastatic pancreatic. I’m 51, I had so much hope,…deep down I still do and I can’t let go of my hope. We all still hope that we will beat the odds and be the exception,…the person that makes it through, the miracle. But I am realistic so I too have decided that this will be my choice when I feel that the time is right. It’s not that time now though. I’m happy that this option is there for us here,…and I’m also happy that if we change our mind beforehand, that’s ok too. Those that are critical of our choices have not walked in our shoes and until they have, they should refrain from harsh judgement. Thanks for speaking on this.❤
Bless you. My brother died last year from pancreatic cancer. It was awful to watch him shrink away. Wish you goodness.
I wish you peace and freedom from pain.
Thank you for posting your perspective about choosing to depart this life when you're ready.
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@@terriecheaney9201 thank you.❤️
@@OceanSwimmer Thanks for your kind words.❤️
Commenting from Canada where MAiD (medical assistance in dying) is legal. My husband chose to end his life in March using MAiD as cancer had returned and there were no other options and no hope of surviving for much longer. He chose to end his suffering. The procedure was provided by a doctor in our home. He was given a sedative via injection and then the final medicine that ended his life. It only took about 10 minutes. It was his choice and it was done with dignity, respect and not a small amount of paperwork and medical consultation. I'll be forever grateful that this was available. It sounds inhumane to make the person have to mix and drink a horrible drink as their last act. Hopefully, in time the US can catch up and provide a similar procedure to ours. Thanks for all you do Julie. My husband found great comfort in watching your videos about end of life before he died.
Yes I know a few in Canada that have taken it ( Maid) which was a blessing for them who are suffering and know their time is limited , I know I would do the same in their shoes , have a peaceful journey to the other side ❤️
And yet another reason I’d like to move to Canada….
I agree. My mum passed away last month from aggressive breast cancer, she would have taken euthanasia for sure but it’s sadly not an option in the UK. So I had to watch her suffer. I stayed with her at the hospice the entire time until she passed. A few days before passing she was reaching out to someone. Her energy is still with me, she has never left! Ending your own life due to a terminal Illness is kind and it’s the patients personal choice. After all, we don’t allow our beloved pets to suffer ! Great work Julie. I’ve been following you for a few months now. Thank you ❤️
That was something I felt is kind of to put it bluntly fucked up. We euthanize our pets and animals to prevent unneeded suffering, but if its a human that is clearly suffering and it is crystal clear they are not going to improve it is "wrong" to humanely euthanize said person even when they and their family are very very clearly suffering.
Well death with dignity is different then euthanasia. Euthanasia, from my understanding, is taking a life to end suffer that is other then your own. Death with dignity is ending suffering for one’s self. I hope I put this in words that can be understood. But I do agree with you…. If we can end an animals suffering why can we not end a humans suffering, I get it!
@@jeanetteiacovone1958 it would be nice if we could be more flexible with the word. Technically, you are right. But the word just means good death.
Who is against a good death except brainwashed fanatics?
I wish we could co-opt the word but it might freak some people out. “They want to kill us ?”
Which is ridiculous.
I have no idea why I’m crying hearing this story. I saw my father waste and die from cancer at 60. I know my dad was holding on to life so tight he wasn’t able to enjoy the time he had left. I’m going to be 60 in less than three years and if I were terminal I would hope I wouldn’t react like my dad. Seeking every avenue for a cure herbal, chemo, radiation visit to Mexico and that cure never came. Then that was it all he did in the months he had left was fight. I wouldn’t want that for me either. I don’t know if I could do it but when the inevitable pain, wasting and frailty come, who knows. Right to die should be available to any terminal individual. I’ve seen a few documentaries wherein people have chosen this path and it seemed this choice enlightened them, there was a light from within. Certainly they would rather have lived but not with a terrible terminal illness. Thanks for sharing this story.
Sending you love Amanda- thank you for being here
@@hospicenursejulie You are a sweet heart (intentionally misspelled)!
In all the stories I’ve heard about medically assisted dying it was a beautiful and soothing process for the family and loved ones. I have not yet heard anyone say it was otherwise.
I’m not sure I could pick a day and time to take the medication but for those who are able ought to have the right to.
My grandma had cancer 3 times. Twice was lung cancer and the last time it had spread to her liver, colon, spine, and brain. Fought and fought and fought and then the last time when it had spread all over her body she decided to not fight anymore. The dignified death isn’t legal where we lived so she suffered, went senile as a result of her brain tumor, and died alone while everyone slept. What I would have given to be able to let her choose her way out. I hope I can choose my way out if life deals me the same hand as her.
I live in the Netherlands and in our country you can choose to drink the drink or let the GP give all the things and then that is very quick. You die within 5 min. Well at least my dad died within 5 min. It was a beautiful day and he was ready. I miss him but it was for the best. He had so much pain and he was on so many pain meds that he just said i do not want to continue like this. I miss him much it has been over 1 month and i am missing him so much. RIP dad❤
I think the right to make your choice to go towards the light love and peace should be allowed✝️❤️
I have witnessed this in first person. It's not sad at all. The person has made their choice and they are raring to go! It was a safe journey and was a good experience for our family.
Thank you for discussing these issues so frankly and succinctly. 🙏
And, for those of us who have read the protocols in various states, thank you for describing what it's like when you're in the room. ♥
My state doesn't recognize Death with dignity. My terminally ill uncle who lived down the street, decided to call us at 5am,he called 911 telling them his address and said the back door is unlocked and blew his head off. The worst part was seeing the aftermath and having to clean it up ourselves since it was a self inficted. After years of working with pts in the hospital and monitoring morphine drip for terminal ill pts,I truly support Death with dignity.
Wow- I'm so sorry- thank you for sharing and being here
Hi Julie, Thank you so very much for helping all of us. I know this may be a crazy question, but do the people who do this do they sometimes eat something?
@@robyngrogan7647 I think she said something like sorbet to get the bitterness out of their mouth.
My dad was close to the same outcome. He would have shot his head off if he’d had a gun because of the pain. I’m so sorry you’re going through this.
@countrygirl, during the final week of my mother‘s life she was comatose on a morphine drip in hospital. I would sit by her bed and read to her. I would constantly think that maybe it would be better if I readjusted the drip so that she could leave. Ultimately, I could not be the one that caused her death. She was 48 and I was only 26 and 40 years later I still remember how painful it was to watch her die. We didn’t have the option of hospice and I am so grateful that it exists now.
My mom died in February. It was a VERY painful 6 months for her, with multiple complications that made life almost unbearable.
My dog went into kidney failure 2 weeks ago and we had to put her down. She was probably in as much pain as my mom. The difference is that her death was beautiful. We got to say goodbye, she licked me like she was thanking me, then she slowly fell asleep in my arms.
I’ve spent a long time wondering why we were able to grant my dog that option while my mom had to suffer.
I can give you a partial answer. Two reasons: superstition (religious taboos) and money. The US economy, for example, is 70% consumer driven. The health care business (that's what it truly is, a business) is 18% of our GDP. A dead person drops out as a consumer, except for final arrangements.
Oh, how I wish we had this available in our state. Watching my mother suffer and die at home from pancreatic cancer was so horrible. My father found out seven years after my mother passed away that he had terminal cancer. He did not want us to have to witness what we went through with my mom. He left a note, went down the basement and put a gun to his head and killed himself. So traumatic for all of us. 😢
I'm so sorry. That must have been awful for him as well as all of you. How infuriating that he found himself in that horrific situation.
A week ago my daughter had to say goodbye to her beloved dog. We knew he was dying from cancer, bleeding internally, and could not hang on any longer. My daughter spent her last week with him just loving on him, snuggling, giving him anything he wanted to eat, letting him spend as much time as he wanted in the sunshine chasing butterflies and cuddling with his fur sister. My daughter stayed with him 24/7. When he grew too weak to lift his head or walk, she knew it was time. We all gathered and said our goodbyes and kissed him and hugged him and petted him as the vet helped him slip away peacefully. We should be able to do this with humans.
Absolutely agree ❤🙏
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You have no right to assist in murder. God can only take a life
@@cn4492 you have the right to think that and make choices on what that looks like for you. Luckily, you don't get to make those decisions for anyone else.
There is a small problem. Dogs are not human and humans are not dogs.
One has a soul and an after eternal life.
here in Canada we have MAiD. Medical Assistance in Dying. I feel it is a patient's choice to end their own suffering. I have seen so many people suffer and I completely understand why people choose to do this. It is very strictly regulated here (as it should be) and many healthcare providers do not participate in the final act (which I respect). It is a hot topic here and as far as I am concerned, if you don't want it, don't do it. That doesn't give someone else the right to make you suffer if you don't have to. I also *get* that it is against some religious views (which is okay too) or against their moral views (which is okay too) but if someone meets the criteria, it should be available for their choice.
@Missiskeefe -- I agree with your message and sentiment 1000% ... individuals should have the right to choose their own destiny in this regard...
Absolutely! The Australian states have all now introduced Voluntary Assisted Dying, but it is still extremely limited (has to be within 6 months of death & the patient has to give consent). My mother has dementia, diagnosed 15 years ago, and now cannot walk, has to be washed, dressed, toileted, and mostly, also fed, and is limited to only saying a few intelligible words. She loves visits but no one can be there as much as we would like. I know Mum would have liked this right but she isn't able to give consent now: as with most late stage dementia patients. And we don't know if she will live another 6 months or 6 years.
It has long been a much discussed topic in our family, as my Grandma was all for "voluntary euthanasia" and then the case of a former neighbour of ours was much publicised about 10 years ago, including a video interview, which I showed Mum, and she agreed with everything the ex-neighbour said. The ex-neighbour had gotten hold of the right drugs, and took her life earlier than she might have liked to do, because it would no longer be an option if she'd gone into a nursing home. She wasn't terminally ill, but at 83 (I think) her body wasn't working as well as it had. She had developed a lump in her breast she didn't want to be dealing with. She was a completely sane, happy, and forthright lady, but she had see many elderly relatives and friends live on, with little quality of life, and knew she didn't want to go like that. Of course all the "right to lifers" carried on about her being depressed. She most certainly was not. I despise those people. Let the patient choose.
I wish that Canada would remove its lengthy residency requirement so US citizens could take advantage of MAID if they don't meet the terminal illness requirements in the 11 states that allow any end-of-life assistance. It's disgusting and tragic that someone like the gentleman in excruciating pain was forced to shoot himself rather than die peacefully. If MAID is inconsistent with your religious beliefs, no pressure should be applied to make one use it. Just don't deny others the kindness you would offer to your dog or cat that is suffering.
Haven't there been cases of healthcare workers suggesting it when the person could be treated?
I too, agree wholeheartedly with this. It’ll be interesting to see what happens next March when the mental illness clause supposedly goes into effect.
Wow, thank you so much for being both caring and clinical explaining this. I suffer from horrific chronic pain, and over the last year, I can understand why people would choose this if faced with a terminal painful disease. I do believe it should be strictly regulated like it is, making sure this is absolutely the right choice for this patient. I am sure it is so hard for every one involved. Blessings to everyone!
@cynthiasotland3887 I also suffer from chronic, intractable pain and due to my state having some of the strictest laws on pain meds, I never get a minute of relief. No one understands what it is like to suffer 24/7 and have their quality of life taken away from them. Have their entire life taken away I should have said! I can barely bring myself to get out of bed knowing that as soon as I do, the horrible pain will wash over me. I can’t do anything anymore except go to my numerous doctors and to the hospital for tests. I unfortunately do not live in a state that allows death with dignity so I guess I continue to suffer. Sending you blessings.
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@@sandyaw3057 I was completely against giving any medical opinions until I personally developed multiple condition/diseases with severe, unbearable, intolerable and constant pain. I wish I’d known about a prescription called Nabilone sooner. It is pure medical grade THC (but if your pain is that intense there are usually no psychological sensations.) It has been legal for a long time for incurable, insufferable pain.)
@@sandyaw3057 I can relate more than you know. I was never depressed until every treatment option for me has failed. I could go on and on about the physical issues, but most stem from a car accident . It changed my life in an instant, although I try every day to be grateful because I should have died in that accident. I started rescuing seniors and senior pups, which has given my life purpose. I am at a point now where I can no longer dress without help. I am facing 3 more surgeries as well. I lost my Mom and many other people and pups over the last few years, which has exacerbated everything. I will say my pups give me a reason to live. They give me unconditional love and rely on me for everything. I work hard for them. They are unconditional love. I am lucky to have a couple great doctors. They are very careful with pain meds, as I believe everyone is right now.I am on a lot of pain meds, and they do not even work. There is no relief. I do not have a lot of options, and is difficult to realize that this pain will never go away. I really hope you find a sense of peace. Keep
Being an advocate for yourself! Speak up, do research for doctors that help with your conditions. A
@@sandyaw3057 I am in a similar situation, so I understand completely. I have had this pain for fifteen years (and it continues to get worse, and I’ll probably have it for the rest of my life, however long that may be. So, since I’m not technically “terminal” I don’t have the option of the death with dignity laws (and my state does have that law). That’s why I actually like that some European countries, like Switzerland and the Netherlands, have done away with the terminal diagnosis. No one should be forced to live with unending pain, and the U.S. medical establishment, because of the Fentanyl crisis, is playing games with real sufferers actually getting their necessary medications. For example, my pharmacy (attached to my insurance plan’s hospital) makes me wait a day or two (or three, like this month) to get my prescription almost every other month. They just want to make sure you don’t manage to have even one pill extra in a month (in case you might abuse it or sell it, I suppose). They always have some excuse. I’m so tired of fighting with them every other month, and that’s on top of having the pain and not having access to my medication. If this continues, or if my pain gets worse, I just might use the rest of my savings to go to Switzerland.
I totally agree with you - I was a CNA for many years and I (and many of my co-workers) have had the comment that "we wish they have ability to pass earlier" - especially in cases of Cancer - it can be a long-suffering disease - so the next best thing we could do is tell the person that it's OK - that they do not have to stay around for their family (which I did for my dad) because a lot of people don't want to bring their loved ones sadness (or whatever) and they don't want to pass when someone is there - in my case my brother (my only sibling) wouldn;t understand so my cousin took him out of the room and that's when I told him - he had been having Chayne Stokes breathing for many days and I told him we would be fine and he didn't have to stay around for us - within 15 minutes of this my dad passed
I had much the same experience with my grandmother, mother and father. I let them know that I (and my husband in the cases of my mom and dad) would be ok and it was fine for them to go even though they would be missed. My grandmother passed the next day, my father within 4 hours and my mom within the hour. It is important to give that "permission" in many cases.
@@Nyquil5 Permission and them accepting it and letting go is the drug ... But many dont understand that. thanks for bringing this up. And hope it helps many people understand the person needs to Let go.... unfinished business... guilt... all must be addressed and there is proof once they are aware of this... they can let go ... and depart in peace. Without drugs.
When I was a hospice nurse I was able to be present during my patient's choice of death with dignity. Their family was present, they shared a final meal, laughed, and cried together. The tears were not of sadness but happiness for they were no longer going to suffer. They had control of their final moments. It went just as you described and shockingly under 30 minutes. It was beautiful.
I totally agree that people should be able to decide when their time has come if they are in the position to do so. But describing watching someone cease to exist as beautiful is seriously fucked up.
@@SirReptitious get over yourself.
My father was diagnosed with a very painful terminal disease back in late 90s. He chose his own way to leave this world all alone by himself. I wish this was available back then so he didn't have to leave this world without family by his side. The only reason why he lasted so many years was to made sure we grew up. This option can potentially offer tremendous peaceful closures in families like mine. I just wish my father had the option back in the days... I miss him so much.
I think this should be legal everywhere!! It's awful that we force people to endure pain for no reason. It's heartbreaking
@greglander5227it’s fine if you believe that for yourself, but I don’t think it’s fair for you say that and make that choice for everyone on the planet.
@@katiescave there is also the problem of (lack of) proper pain management and care with dignity. But that's so much more expensive and takes more manpower. Offering a "cocktail"; and three days later a funeral, is much cheaper and easier. There's that aspect, too.
Every person on this planet deserves options...ALL OPTIONS available to us. It is our choice to utilize these options. Imagine an oncologist telling you that your cancer is only treatable with Hershey's chocolate bars for example. Wouldn't you want to know there's chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, etc? News to Americans, not everyone in the world is Christian. Thanks!
Agreed 💯
@greglander5227if some deity is comfortable with someone going through prolonged pain then they are not the kind of deity we should admire
Death with Dignity needs to be legal in ALL states. I wish my dad had had the option.
The patients voice should be the ONLY voice being heard when it comes to this decision. It's incredibly selfish to guilt someone out of this type of very PERSONAL decision because someone else it too selfish to let them go.
Ohhhh, me, too!!!
Amen. We almost had a family situation when my Grandpa had a massive stroke and would have had no quality of life had he lived. Thankfully Mom made the choice to let him go instead of making him suffer even more.
Yes, Yes and Yes! Thank you Julie for addressing this. Personally I so agree to be able to have this choice and it has been a long time coming. Everyone, everyone should have this Right! Thanks again.....God bless.....
I wish we had that choice in the UK. I watched my Dad did of cancer. I know he wanted to make his own choice to die pain free with dignity
@donnasutton6511 There are people working towards trying to pass legislation to allow this in the U.K. and I believe the Isle of Man might be the first to get it passed. I suspect in the next year or two the U.K. will have passed the law to allow this.
@wethenorth6347 I had no idea, thank you 😊
As a RN in the UK I pray we do not get this passed. I have witnessed assisted dying in another country and believe me it isn’t the pretty picture @@wethenorth6437 nurse Julie wants us to believe. Medication given to dry secretions produces an unbearable thirst leaving the person begging for water and then gasping for breath. I am 100% against assisted dying.
Did he pass peacefully in the end?
They are blessed to have you Nurse Julie at the end of their lives.🙏❤💙💔
Thank you for your fantastic education on this topic! As a Hospice Chaplain I sat with 4 patients in Washington State. Each were among the more beautiful deaths I have witnessed. Perhaps because the entire circle of family and friends were ‘on point’ with the patient. They are prepared, supportive and their is no room for denial. Keep up the great work!!
I'm asking can you please pray for my life and buy my life I mean the people around me I am slowly slipping back into my past and I don't want to and the demons are really coming back. I won't say the devil because I'm not going to give him no credit! Thank you 🙏
@@jackieisabelajasoPlease seek help. You can look online four groups or therapy❤
Turn to Jesus, for guidance strength and health. Amen. John 3:16
It's saying that there's 3 comments on this but I only see 2 ?
@@pamelaholden9576 John 3:16 is sadly over used and disrespected years ago by a wrestler 🤷
Thank you! I live in a state where death with dignity is legal. I have already told my family ~ I now need to talk to my doctor. Anyway, I am grateful you posted on this subject. I'd like to see more videos on this.
Great video, Julie ❤ appreciate you and your education. I wish this was available in every state. 💗
Hi Julie - I’ve been watching your channel for months, now. I have to say Thank YOU! You go out on a limb to educate about a subject sooooooo many people deny, suppress, repress, ALL OF IT! Your professionalism is nestled in the warmth of the surroundings in which you choose to use your camera … and the reality is delivered in a soft, kind, gentle but ACCURATE way! Good for you. I worked for Hospice for 3.5 years in the early 90’s. NEVER has a job impacted my life for the very BEST the way Hospice has. I could wax on, but won’t. I just wanted to tell you how appreciative I am you are doing this WONDERFUL death, deathing & love while dying EDUCATION!!! We need it so desperately. Thank you so much … You are doing the work of God! How many times have you heard THAT? God bless you, lovely woman!
VERY well said!
I watched a pbs documentary about a guy who went out of country to take this medicine. Freaked me out. It was the first time I ever saw someone pass away. I was not ok. Kudos to you for being there with this person. You are a strong woman.
Technically, we're all terminal. No one is getting out of here alive! But I am so grateful that this option is available in some states. I would want the choice if I had a terminal disease.
***"...and along comes Debbie Downer!"****
I couldn't resist, but you are absolutely right.
My mother was one month away from being 86 yrs old. She had 9 daughters and 8 of us were around her bed, in my sisters home where she lived, singing" On this day Oh Beautiful Mother" as she died. I am the youngest of the 9 and I was sitting with one arm above her head and the other arm across her chest. We had all had a private moment with her to tell her what we wanted before she died. She was conscious but not talking. She seemed to be crying but there were no tears. When she was dying and I had my arm across her, I couldn't see her face but I could feel her breathing slowing down. Then I felt a little rattle in her chest and then there was no more breathing. My sisters said she mouthed "I love you" as she died. There was a spiritual presence in the bedroom and I believe Jesus and Mary were there. My mother always said 2 rosaries a day. If death can be beautiful, hers was. There was no medicine ... no morphine. She didnt moan or seem in discomfort. I asked her earlier that day if she was in pain and she shook her head no and then I asked her if she was suffering and she nodded yes. She died as she lived...peacefully, accepting, refined. She had cancer. It was a natural death and an honor to witness it.
I fully support the death with dignity movement. I wish it would be available in all 50 states. My 65 year old sister had a long, long history of mental health issues and non-life threatening health issues. This past October, she decided that she had had enough and ended her own life (not death with dignity...rather a prescription medication overdose). It was a shock because I never suspected that it is something that she would do. But I am not mad at her and I am comforted knowing that she is finally at peace. I always described her as a "tormented soul". But, for the death with dignity, why would anyone be against someone who we KNOW is going to die a painful, agonizing death choosing to end their life on their terms. They can have whatever friends and family they want with them, laugh, cry, say final goodbyes and just go out when and where they choose.
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The answer to your question David is that the majority of the population who disagree with Voluntary Assisted Dying
(as it is called in Australia), do so for religious reasons.
Fortunately, in Australia, nearly every state or territory now allows VAD but it's been a long, difficult battle to get there.
Some people refuse to accept that their religious beliefs should never interfere with laws or government.
Thank you for the details of what happens. I have moved to CO because it recognizes this kindness and respect for people. Knowing what happens makes it even more peaceful a choice.
I met parents who had a 3 yr old and 2 yr old both be diagnosed with two different types of terminal cancer and died within days of each other. The parents carry so much grace. 😢
Julie honey you are incredible. I am so grateful for your service your attitude, but mainly your heart. Blessings to you honey. Have a wonderful holiday.❤
Same to you 🥹🥹🥰🥰💗💗
We don’t let an animal suffer why should we?!❤
We are not animals, we are human beings.
@@ellenharney238 we are though
@@Freddybender123 all l can say is read the Bible 🙏🏻
@@ellenharney238but animal life is more sacred than human in the eyes of society… well help a injured animals before an injured person
@AppleSauce7417 GOD doesn’t judge dogs, cats . GOD didn’t make the 10 commandments for dogs and cats, birds he made the commandments for people to follow, we are judged by GOD 🙏🏻
Your description is spot on. You are very knowledgeable about everything I’ve heard in your videos. I am a retired nurse in Texas, and unfortunately there is no end of life medication in my state. I really love your channel ♥️♥️♥️
Julie, I could a book but I won’t, as a retired funeral director I saw a lot of death after the death! The hospice nurses were always the go between the funeral home and the family. I was ALWAYS so glad to see them on a residential death call. I have seen all of your videos and you hospice nurses are angels period. Though I did have to deal with one nasty nurse that was just ugly to the family and to me but I didn’t let that KAREN get to me and was able to help the family. You know one night after a 3am death at the funeral home prep room standing with eight + - dead people by myself wondering about the souls floating around the room and how I wish I would see something,but next thought was why would anyone want to float around here! Blessings!
@ Jeanderamee488 oh, come on stop hating white people stop abusing us and stop killing us and stop wars against all European nations Jesus, holy name, Satan be gone
Lol… that is funny and you are so right…they are floating around loved ones!
I just don't understand why people are against this. If an animal is suffering and there's nothing more to be done, it's put to sleep. No questions asked. I don't understand why the same principle is such a massive issue in humans. I would want to have this choice but living in the UK, it's just not an option. I watched my grandmother just exist until she passed. It wasn't living and she was ready to go, she'd had enough. That to me is cruel.
It’s suicide. Some religions are against suicide and it’s not for you to decide. You may be against religion but thankfully most people are not against religion . In Canada they actually PUSH it for depression and even in wheelchairs .
Good video. Thanks for telling this story. My good friend Mike died 3 years ago. He had ESRD and had been on many different medications including insulin, as well as 3x weekly dialysis for a number of years. When his health "suddenly" took a marked turn for the worse after what should have been a routine surgery, he decided it was time to go. He'd thought about it a lot, and he and I had talked about it - including the possibility of the big S. As a lucid, clear minded adult, he had the right to simply stop taking his meds - including the insulin that kept him alive. And that's what he did. He had coordinated with local Hospice (although he ended up dying while still in the hospital), and was not in pain due to good painkiller meds. I spoke with him on the phone about 8 hours before he died - he was very sedated and his speech was slurred, but he was still quite lucid. He was gone by the next morning. My pal Mike. Merry Xmas.
Glad that we have MAiD here in Canada. I think it is such a gift (and a right) to allow people to make their own decisions about how they will leave this earth. I can’t imagine having to make that decision, as no one WANTS to make that decision.. but when you’re faced with the choice of dying slowly and painfully with dying in peace and being of sound mind to say goodbye.. why not allow someone to keep their dignity. I think it’s such a beautiful option for those who wish to use it.
Thank you for continuing to educate about these things. We will all end up at the end of our life eventually, and you’re really opening the eyes of society to the fact that death doesn’t have to be scary - that it’s a natural thing we will all one day experience. Thank you so much for what you do.
Thankfully I live in Canada where this is legal and I'm glad it's a choice we all have because my body is my own and no one should be able to dictate what I do with it and especially how i choose to die when facing a life ending illness. Thank You Julie for speaking about dying with dignity.
I live in Canada too and I agree. I've witnessed loved ones suffer and pass away and wish this would have been an option for them.
@@coolbreeze5683me too. 💔
I have heard that Canada is now giving Euthanasia to homeless people who otherwise would not need it. I hope that is not true?
Thank you for sharing this. You really make a fine spokesperson for hospice (Earth Angels) and do a great job explaining the details of the death process.
I’ve had some painful experiences, but they had an end. When I think of the pain these patients must have it makes me weep. Everyone should have an opportunity to shorten their suffering if they want.
Your vids with medical info and objective observation are invaluable. More power to you!!!
My motto is that everyone ought to be able to do what they wish so long as it does not hurt another or their property. Each of us must deal with the dying process-take meds to try to fix or to end. It’s personal and private. No one else has the right to make or judge a personal life choice-as long as that choice hurts no one else or another’s property. Some private acts are no one else’s right to judge. Rant over!! 🙂
As a 33 year plus CNA/MT . I can appreciate this and the families that need to go through this ❤.
My speciality is palliative care. I am so grateful to be able to help share their lives❤
You are doing so much good in this particular part of life and death. Lifting the veil covering the choices available to those suffering, and teaching people about dying with dignity. So often, doctors don't feel comfortable explaining these legal choices. Now, about the rights for abortion.... 😢
Every video you post has been so helpfully and so comforting. I have a very dear friend who has stage 4 cancer and this topic has recently come up. This video will be very helpful in their decision as the most basic information on the process has been difficult to find. Thank you and God Bless.
One thing you forgot to mention is that at ANY point up to taking the drink, the patient can change their mind. Even if it's been mixed. Even if the glass is up to their lips. There's no hard feelings, no repercussions.
(for anyone else curious: The entire act from the decision to look into death with dignity to the moment the glass is fully emptied is 100% the patients choice. No one else's.)
Sounds Wonderful!! If only they would allow for dementia that can be so utterly devastating. And when you get bad, they'll say..''you can't make that decision." It just seems so unfair to have to slowly lose your mind and drive your family crazy.
Folks need to complete documents well before diagnosis.
My dad did not want to be on machines, in his 2007 documents.
I will honor his choice.
I will do what steps are reasonable, such as bp medication to keep him comfortable.
He is not a burden.
He provides opportunity to see God’s hand in our lives.
I will also note that my dad is diagnosed with Parkinson’s and vascular dementia.
He’s just losing abilities and is becoming a child again, but he has come to trust me as we traveled this journey together.
I will do my best.
@@salauerman7082 he is lucky to have you.
@@cg00000 my dad struggled with his declining abilities.
I told him that he only changed job descriptions, to teach others in a different way- with my help.
As our generation helps our elders or others who have fewer abilities, we teach younger folks how to help us as we age… and the value of life.
Truth! 💯%! @@salauerman7082
My sister died of a very rare cancer when she was 48 years old, in 1987. The pain was excruciating and she said she wanted to commit suicide. I said we would pray so she would not have to do that. She was in hospital with a morphine drip for a week. The doctor told her she could live another three months because her heart was so strong. We prayed non-stop during this week. The pain lifted, she said her peaceful goodbyes and saw visions of her loved ones and her Lord during this time. She passed looking beautiful and at peace at the end of the week. This is our faith’s way of assisting an actively dying person. I am glad we could offer her the best medicine possible, as far as we, are concerned. We cannot chose to enter this world. The Lord gives, the Lord takes away. Blessed be the Lord.
Praise the Lord. He healed your sisters suffering so that she was able to die peacefully. Now you can be sure that she is with him ❤
I remember watching something similar on that documentary "How to Die in Oregon." They started it off with a man taking it. The man was given every chance to not do it. He described the medication as "woodsy". It's a bit old (2011) so I think they might have changed some things with the procedures since then? If you are going to watch it, have some some tissues ready. It's quite sad.
I am glad that in the story you shared the patient was at peace and surrounded by love when they passed. Everybody deserves a choice.
I’m a psw in Canada (cna). In my 10 years I have seen this twice. It is hands down the most beautiful experience.
The happiness around having the choice to end suffering, say all of your goodbyes and slip away peacefully is an amazing thing to see.
Thank you once again Julie. Information that is so important to know if you know where to find it. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. My husband passed away in his sleep two years ago and your channel has helped me understand death a little bit better.
My great grandmother passed away yesterday (12/13/23) at the age of 93 from cancer. I unfortunately wasn't there when she died, but I heard she went peacefully in her home surrounded by family
This is a mercy and a blessing. Condolences and may you find comfort in the years ahead.
Thank you for sharing this. I wish this choice was available for everyone with a terminal illness.
Wow…I want to commend you for all you do… You are truly a caring and compassionate human being…
I totally feel that every state should have this right for those that are terminal ❤
Why only if they're terminal? What if someone is in excruciating pain or has other incurable conditions that destroy their quality of life? Obviously, there should be procedures in place to avoid disabled people being pressured to die because of medical expenses or inconvenience to family members, but if they have been clear about their end-of-life wishes, why should they be forced to suffer indefinitely if their ailment isn't technically terminal?
vote
@@annmariebrittan6159 Getting MAID on the ballot in a Red Bible Belt state where one party's official platform wants to make it illegal for gay people to marry, adopt children or get spousal work benefits isn't going to happen in the near future. Ironically, I feel like a voice crying in the wilderness.
@@Victoria-pz9dv well I had a very good friend that committed suicide due to bad pain she suffered for years.. I think ,to me ,it is a good enough reason!
@@lisafullerton5086 Exactly. Being terminal may make the decision easier, but I absolutely think there should be options for those who have other brutal non-terminal conditions.
Thank you so very much, Julie for this extremely helpful video. Keep doing these. They are so informative and illuminating.
What a beautiful way to go. I wish my grandma had gotten to choose. She suffered horribly for 3 years before she passed. We all deserve the right to choose. Thanks so much for sharing this with us sweetie❤
Thank you for your life of service and giving it away by sharing with us and working with others.
I have Multiple Sclerosis and I am only getting worse, so I appreciate this video and appreciate the choice.
Thank you, your a special person and an a type of angle of people in this situation. Coming to the end of my life, I'm watching this stuff. I don't want to suffer.
My mom battled cancer for 4 years and passed away a few months ago. She stuck it out. She took morphine to help ease the pain.
❤Amen Amen good for her she was a strong Woman,
I’m so sorry for your loss.
@@beverlyjones9750 Thank you. She was.
@@alican5695 Thank you. No more pain or tears.
Sounds like she also made the choice that was right for her.
I work in a retirement community, and about 4 months ago we had a lady who decided to take this route. Her muscles were deteriorating and she was in a lot of pain constantly.
The day she died she told me, and the other housekeepers and she was happy and looking forward to it. Sometimes you just cant take it anymore, and nothing helps.
I believe people should have this choice, and not have to live in fear, or pain.
You are a great educator, your words are direct and well thought out. Well done.
She's not an educator- by any means - she stands there- watching someone - take poison - to commit suicide- yeah - great teacher - She's a fool - anyone following in her footsteps - are also FOOLS !!!
Thank you Julie. You make hospice, and choosing how and when to pass not be a horrific event.
I watched a show from another country that allowed someone who had suffered lifelong, treatment resistant depression to do this.
I can’t tell you what a blessing you are. You have given me so much peace.
Thank you Julie!!! I appreciate all your videos!!! Merry Christmas!!
Merry Christmas to you too
Thank you, Nurse
Julie!❤😊
For anybody with questions about life insurance end-of-life medications, don't worry. I have worked in the industry for decades. Taking these medications will not void your policy. They also will not trigger any review under a suicide clause.
However, if you are unsure you should contact you insurer and ask. A customer service representative at your insurance company should be able to provide you with confirmation of this information. It is not an unusual thing to ask.
Why would it even be an issue because the death certificate states the terminal illness. The insurance company goes by the death certificate.
You are giving people such a gift with your information... You describe everything well and with compassion ... thank you XOXO
Beautifully explained. Thank you for all that you do 🤍
Thank you so much for your detailed description and stating a personal choice. You are truly a rock star ❤
Every state should have this available!
Unfortunately it will never happen in a red state
Thank you, thank you, thank you. 🤗🤗🙏🙏♥️♥️. Anyone who has a disease or sickness they won’t recover from, this option is a blessing, puts one’s mind at ease.
As a hospice nurse in NSW Australia, Voluntary assisted dying has just become legal in our state. In all my years of nursing I have rarely heard patients say they want to VAD. I have no opinion or judgement to VAD, it will be intersting to see where this goes and which patients will access this service. Beautiful story, thank you for your channel, I often refer family to your channel when they have questions ❤
Thank God for your videos. So many questions answered. You are a God sent Nurse Julie and all you hospice nurses ❤
I have always supported this right fervently, and really appreciate hearing about some details I didn’t know like the death certificate, etc. thank you 🖤
I am for it but VERY cautiously because with everything the government likes to stick its nose in it. If the government would stay out of it then i am for it but if the government decides (as it probably would eventually do ) who gets to live and die I am adamantly opposed to that.
I don’t think the government should even have a right to regulate who can do this. If a person wants to end their life regardless of the age, health or mental capacity I think that is their and their family’s business not the government’s and not the medical system.
At the same time, I don’t think any medical staff should be forced to give the drugs if it goes against their conscience even on a case by case basis.
Everyone should be free from government control when it comes to your own life.
Hats off to you for being able to deal with so many deaths. I really appreciate someone compassionate dealing with death.
❤❤❤ We live in a state with this choice❤❤❤ ITS THE DEMENTIA patients I feel for😢😢😢
You are amazing Julie! And to those judging those who choose to exercise this dignified option, I have words for you, but I don’t want to get booted off RUclips.
Thanks! Good to know!
I’m retired from Oncology Research & also a cancer patient. I have no religious affiliation that insists that I experience blindness & seizures prior to my demise. It’s a personal choice at end of life that should be respected.
Hello Julie, I am from Canada and here we have what is called MAID. My brother in law just signed the forms for MAID as he suffers from MSA. What you do is truly amazing and thank you
Can't give this one enough thumbs up!
Thank you for the professional way in which you deliver information around the most sensitive of subjects.
I am relieved people can pass with dignity. Some might choose suicide, otherwise.
Thank you for your honesty, compassion and professionalism. I agree that it is an honor to assist patients in the death process. However, your caring approach allows patients to feel safe and heard. With gratitude. Loretta
I am not afraid of dying. However, I am afraid of suffering. I have severe emphysema and when I get a flare and start to suffer from air hunger it is so painful. I am in stage 3 there are only 4 stages. But, the flare ups are coming more frequently and lasting much longer. At the age of 71 I have had a good life. But, I wish our state had the option to die with dignity.
Thank you so much for this Nurse Julia. I am learning so much from you. I have never heard of end of life medication. My mom passed away with hospice at home. The nurses were so wonderful, and with us every step of the way.
I had a client that had a progressive disease and when he reached a point that he was struggling to breathe and swallow, he ended up taking his own life. He was alone. how much better it would have been if he could have said "today is the day" and we could have all gathered around him and celebrated this bon-voyage with him. Instead, because of the laws in Arizona, he took his own life. How hard it must have been for him to go through this completely alone. None of us had any clue that he was going to do this. So even the process of deciding to do this, he must have felt so alone. Losing him doesn't hurt as much as how he left this world. Plus the devastation for the caregiver that did find him. I love that there are options, and I hope that Arizona gets on board with this!!
That's heartbreaking! It's inhumane that people are denied a planned, calm death if they so choose.
As an Arizonan, I am so with you on this! To be brutally frank - and as a woman - I am sick and tired of having my choices over _my own body_ being held hostage by the beliefs of some religions. Not everyone belongs to, or believes in those particular faiths. To those that do, by all means, follow *your* tenets...but leave the rest of us to follow ours, and that most certainly includes how to deal with the end of life.
Thanks so much for this! It was great to have the process clearly explained. So thankful for you.
Hi Julie
I volunteer with Hospice in a small town in Western Canada installing Hospice beds. I have seen numerous patients and watching your videos helped me understand what they are going through. I am 71 yoa as well and have coronary disease. Had a heart attack a year ago and had 7 stents. Hopefully I will be around for a few more years and after watching your videos I am more relieved and don't fear death quite as much. The medicine you say patients are given, is that the same as what they call an assisted death in Canada where you receive an injection to help you on your way.
Yes it is, just another way to describe the act of suicide.
Julie, thank you for your obvious caring for others. Your face glows and I'm blessed every time I watch one of your videos.
We need a way out for people with dementia and for those with degenerative diseases like ALS.
My aunt had stomach cancer, terminal, horribly suffering. Had to get fluids drained from her weekly and it was just agonizing. She told us all the time that she just wanted to die. In the end this law was passed and she got her wish to no longer suffer. It was the first time in a very long time we saw her at peace. She went out singing her favorite songs with her family by her side. I will always believe you should have the right to not suffer a painful death. Everyone should have the choice put before them if they are suffering like that.
Friday the 8th hospice used meds to keep my dieing ex husband safe calm and he went so peaceful he had 6 organs fail and swelling on brain covid pneumonia 2 days in he went w us holding his hand.. hospice used 2 meds he was safe and went w out hurting . He didn't want it he wanted to come hime but wasn't gna be calm at home so he went in pateint
These comments are so profound,i love my parents so much and my heart breaks everytime that one day i wont be able to tell them "i love you" "good morning" "goodnight" but Instead ill have to say "goodbye" the thought death has me awake at night for hours into the next morning