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Death on Your Terms: Navigating Voluntary Assisted Dying with Jane Morris

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5th September 2024

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About this episode

In this episode of "Don't Be Caught Dead", I sit down with Jane Morris, President of Dying with Dignity Victoria, to unpack the complex journey of voluntary assisted dying legislation in Australia. From its controversial beginnings to its current stringent implementation, we delve into the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing struggles in the fight for end-of-life choices.

Jane takes us on a captivating historical journey, starting with the formation of the Voluntary Euthanasia Society of Victoria in 1974. We explore pivotal moments like the groundbreaking Rights of the Terminally Ill Act in the Northern Territory in 1995, and the tireless advocacy of Dr Rodney Syme. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the societal and political battles fought over decades, culminating in Victoria's landmark legislation in 2017.

But the story doesn't end there. Jane provides an eye-opening look at the current state of voluntary assisted dying in Victoria, detailing the stringent eligibility criteria and complex process individuals must navigate. We discuss the controversial 'gag clause' that prevents doctors from initiating conversations about VAD, and the logistical challenges faced by rural residents. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of where we stand and the work that still needs to be done to ensure dignified end-of-life choices for all Australians.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

Show notes

Guest Bio
Podcast Guest - Image
Jane Morris, President of Dying With Dignity Victoria

June 19, 2024 – DWDV celebrated it’s 50th anniversary and 5 years of VAD operation in Victoria, at an event at Parliament House. Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and
Andrew Denton were guest speakers.

The 2024 Dying with Dignity Board

This is a photo of Nia Sims and me. Nia was the most amazing VAD advocate. We became great friends and sat together during the entire 2017 parliamentary debate.
Nia suffered from Scleroderma, an auto-immune disease and fortunately was able to access VAD years later, in Victoria.

Dr Stefanie Green, a ‘Medical Assistance In Dying’ provider. She began her career as an obstetrician and changed to assisting people to die when the law was passed in Canada.

Dr Rodney Syme

 

 

 

Summary

Key points from our discussion:

  • The history of Dying with Dignity Victoria, dating back to 1974
  • The Northern Territory's pioneering but short-lived euthanasia legislation in 1995
  • Dr Rodney Syme's significant contributions to the cause
  • Victoria's current VAD legislation: eligibility criteria and process
  • The 'gag clause' and its impact on patient awareness
  • Challenges faced by rural residents in accessing VAD
  • The role of Dying with Dignity Victoria in providing witnessing services
  • The VAD process; Two verbal requests, Assessments by two doctors, written request, witnessed by 2 independent witnesses and then a permit is issued

Transcript

1
00:00:00,990 --> 00:00:04,700
There are people who go
through the process and their

2
00:00:04,700 --> 00:00:07,000
pain isn't that apparent.

3
00:00:07,350 --> 00:00:09,870
It's almost an invisible pain.

4
00:00:10,130 --> 00:00:13,410
And that is very, very hard
for some people to understand.

5
00:00:13,440 --> 00:00:16,990
Well, you know, why do they want to
die when they look all right to me?

6
00:00:17,119 --> 00:00:19,519
... Read More

Resources

 

 

  • My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

  • Support Services
    If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

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