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Dr. Ellen Wiebe is a UBC clinical professor practising women’s health and assisted death. She is one of Canada’s most prominent providers and proponents of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) and serves as research director of the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers. She has provided assisted death to more than 400 people.

 In 2023, one in 20 deaths in Canada – 15,343 of them – occurred through the MAiD program, and this rate is growing.

 Of all the provinces, Quebec has the highest rate with British Columbia close behind.

 Within BC, Island Health has the most assisted deaths of any health region, with 32% of all MAiD deaths in the province.

 There were also 915 rejected requests, most of which came from people without recognized terminal illnesses.

 The eligibility of people without terminal illnesses is one of the most contentious aspects of medically assisted death. Perhaps for this reason, the Canadian government has repeatedly delayed approving MAiD for people suffering solely from a mental illness.

 Is this a responsible approach? Or is it a cruel delay for those living lives of pain and little quality, often afflicted with loneliness and depression?

 The ethical and emotional dimensions of this issue are undeniable, complicated, and extremely important.

 We are grateful to Dr. Wiebe for coming to Salt Spring Island to share her expertise and reflections with us – in a discussion that will respect all beliefs and perspectives.