In April 2026 Susan became the first documented case in the state of Hawaii to successfully utilize Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED) as a bridge to legally qualify for and use Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD).

I am honored to have been Susan’s End-of-Life Doula to educate her on her options, advocate for her wishes, and be present at her bedside, while ensuring her continuum of care between medical providers, clinicians, hospice, caregivers and loved ones.

Susan’s last wish was for me to share her story with the world, so others might gain the gift of agency, dignity and choice under the law I helped her achieve.