In this deeply personal and challenging reflection, Heidi Janz explores the connection between disability, MAiD, ableism, and Christian witness in Canada. Drawing from her own story, the life and death of Tracy Latimer, and her work in disability ethics, Janz calls the church to affirm the dignity of disabled lives and resist the cultural belief that dependence makes a life less valuable.
For four years, I’ve reported on the expansion of medical assistance in dying (MAiD) in Canada. I’ve listened to disabled Canadians share their fears and stories, feeling their sorrow deeply. Through this, I’ve found that MAiD starkly reminds me of Jesus’s hope, generosity, and presence in grief.
When did society shift to evaluating the existence of a person, based on what they “contribute”? And when did society adopt the mindset that suffering is not valuable to the human condition? How did the Canadian way of life become a real-life version of Squid Games?
As I trimmed Aunt Wilma’s “Good Luck” card, memories flooded back. Aunt Wilma’s vibrant prayers had always brought comfort, yet she couldn’t foresee the darkness that claimed her life. She died alone, a victim of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). We thought it was a cleaning service, not assisted suicide.
In an enlightening discussion, Bronwyn Gray shares insights into her short film Worth More, which addresses the complex and sensitive issue of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). Her hope is that the film will spark meaningful conversations and inspire action against MAiD across Canada.
Bill C-62's delay on extending MAiD access to those with mental illness until 2027 prompts a critical reflection on societal support. Keith Dow urges focusing on the root causes of suffering and ensuring comprehensive support systems, emphasizing that expanding MAiD criteria may sidestep essential, underlying questions.
"I don't want to be a burden." Dr. Quentin Genuis challenges society's misconception equating worth with independence. True dignity lies in embracing interdependence, affirming each person, especially the suffering or disabled, as a gift, not a burden.
Within Canada's medical assistance in dying (MAiD) legislation, questions of competence loom large. Dr. Ephraim Radner draws upon personal experiences and theological reflections to bring to light the ethical dilemmas surrounding the legislation. What constitutes competence in the face of existential decisions like life and death? Is it age, experience, or something deeper?
Julia Beazley, Director of Public Policy for the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada grapples with Canada's expansion of medical assistance in dying ("MAiD"). In this article she encourages us to consider policy, foster belonging, challenges ableism and amplify the voices of those with disabilities.
Deina Warren, discusses Canada's MAiD framework. Reflecting on a recent court case involving an Alberta father and his autistic daughter, she emphasizes the need for life-affirming care and advocates for improved quality of life.
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