I’m so proud of my mum for so many things. I’m proud that she chose this option of a peaceful, dignified death. If I end up with a terminal illness, I’ll be going the same way, writes Dana Lewis.

Having previously been against assisted dying, New Zealand specialist GP Jo Scott-Jones describes the immense privilege of helping someone die in the way they want, and offers insight into the personal and professional considerations involved.

Suffering intolerably with terminal lung and bowel cancer, 78-year-old Irene Bizon was one of the first Queenslanders to use the state’s voluntary assisted dying law.

In 2021, my husband of 35 years, Stephen, became one of the first people to use Western Australia’s Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) law. I hope sharing our story will help break the stigma that still surrounds VAD – and support other families going through the process.

Victoria's Voluntary Assisted Dying law relieved 28-year-old Alex Blain's biggest fear - dying of cancer. And, to him, that was the same as saving his life. 

Aboriginal woman Mary-Ellen Passmore was one of first people to use Western Australia's voluntary assisted dying law. She told her carers: “It is terrifying being trapped by your own body and it’s a relief to know there will be an end to my suffering."

69-year-old Larry Riley died “peacefully and without fear” using Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying law. Suffering with end-stage respiratory disease, Larry said accessing the law had been difficult, but he was grateful for the choice. "I want everyone to know what is available to them." 

This is a positive personal story about our family’s experience with Voluntary Assisted Dying in Victoria.

Diagnosed with rapidly progressing motor neurone disease, Kristin's dad Allan drew great comfort from knowing he could access Victoria's voluntary assisted dying laws. 

Keith English died peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He died on his own terms using Victoria's voluntary assisted dying laws and was in control until the end.