I write with relief and overwhelming sadness of my husband’s death. He chose medical assistance in dying ( MAiD) legal in canada since 2016. He was the first MAiD patient on Vancouver Island who donated organs, 4 in all, to 3 recipients . The experience was surreal, loving, respectful and calm. All worked diligently to ensure the families comfort. The doctors involved have checked in with me several times the past week just to check in. I will be seeing a grief counsellor beginning this week.
His brain tissue has been sent to CurePSP Research Centre in Jacksonville, Florida.
So a new chapter begins.
Written by
catherineann
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Words fail me - once again. I am in awe of your husband's and your courage and resolve. I know something now, 8 months into my own, of how grief takes over, and wish you the comfort of your memories of love and happiness and knowing you did your best. Love and peace, Sarah
Catherineann may your beloved rest in peace. I wish we had the same system here but sadly we don't. To donate his organs too is a great gift to others.
I am so sad for you as I know what it feels like to lose the one you love. You will survive but it will be hard. Don't ever query whether your husband did the right thing or not. He did 100%. For both your sakes! Just try to focus on the good memories.
Dear Catherineann, my thoughts are with you at this terrible time. May your husband rest in peace, finally free from this evil disease.
We are all still here for you. In those dark days ahead, take comfort from the knowledge that your man was able to take control back from PSP. He went on his terms, not the way dictated by this terrible illness.
I am so pleased they were so sensitive and caring.
Condolences.
Warmly
Kevin
I read this last night in A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore.
There’s a fine edge to new grief, it severs the nerves, disconnects reality — there’s mercy in a shape blade. Only with time, as the edge wears, does the real ached begin.
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and the sadness it brings.
I live in the USA, Los Angeles, CA. My son died of PSP, May 4, 2017. He was barely 55 years old. My son, five weeks after having a PEG installed for aspiration pneumonia (2nd bout) asked to NOT be fed. He was under Hospice care at his home. I had a paid caretaker M-F and I would come by each each day for several hours, and would spend the weekend.
I applaud your/his decision to donate his brain to CURE PSP. I wish I had done that. It just seemed there was little time to research how to do that.
I joined a 8 week Grief Group, through my health insurance. It was helpful. Last week I joined one offered during Lent at my church.
Yes, there is relief for the suffering ending, but sooooooooo much sadness.
Dear Catherineann, I am so glad that in the last days you were able to go back to being more of a loving wife and less of a carer. Your husband showed great courage and was very fortunate to be supported by such a loving family. My own husband passed away last week and I hope that you are now surrounded by the love of your family, as I am. It is early days and we have a difficult journey ahead but we are not alone. Take care of yourself.
Dear Catherineanne, sad to hear that G has past away but it was on his own terms when he was ready, wish we had the same system here. It sounds as if everything was put in place with great dignity in order that you as a family were the centre of this and his organ donation was done discretely. You will have that reassurance that his donation is helping someone and part of him lives on in them. I'm sure the counselling will help you through the grieving process . Sending my warmest wishes
Well done in such a sad and difficult time. You have done your best for him and in time, I'm sure that knowledge will give you comfort. I'm glad you are going to see a counsellor. It sounds that your hospital in Canada knows what it's doing. Best wishes. Our NHS seems to be rather behind the times.
Dear Catherineann, I'm so sorry to hear this, even though, since Christmas, I've been expecting this post. Knowing you together prepared for it and directed the timing, doesnt make it any less unwelcomed and tragic.
I know (because you sound strong) you will take care of yourself and begin to find healing. Thank you for sharing with us here, as your experience with MAID is, I think, unique on this site.
So sorry for your loss. I have huge respect for the courage of you and your husband. It is good to hear that everything proceeded in a dignified manner.
I hope the counselling will be helpful, take care of yourself as you embark on a new journey
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My grandad <3 died at the hands of psp 11.4.13
MY DAD WHO DID NOT HAVE PSP HAS DIED AGED 92 (I HAVE PSP)
