Medical Aid in Dying in Illinois

Why we need it, now.

As I continue to explore the complexities of healthcare and individual autonomy as a Chicago death doula, one issue that demands my attention is medical aid in dying (MAID).

My terminally ill clients want choices.

In Illinois, this legislation would provide terminally ill, mentally competent adults with medical assistance to peacefully end their lives.

Legalizing MAID in Illinois would offer a compassionate option for my clients facing unbearable suffering and a limited life expectancy. A bill has been introduced, again, that will do just that.

What Is MAID?

MAID allows eligible individuals to peacefully end their lives at a time of their choosing. This is typically with the help of prescribed medications, self-administered either orally, rectally, or through a feeding tube.

It's also under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

MAID laws include the following components:

• The individual must be diagnosed with a terminal condition that is expected to result in death within six months.

• The…