Glimpses into Alzheimer's : What the option of MAiD Meant to Us

How often do you get the opportunity to meet someone who talks so openly about their partner’s wishes for an Assisted Death?

Jule Briese reflects and shares how writing about their shared 4 year Alzheimer's journey continues to help doctors better understand what legislation means to patients like Wayne and his family.

Ireland now has recommendations to legislate for Assisted Dying, presented to government by the Oireachtas Joint Committee in June 2024. When invited in to address the committee, End of Life Ireland said dementia cannot be excluded from this conversation, a view shared by Dementia Ireland.

Across the world where legislation has been introduced - and never rescinced - it has mostly been conservative to the point where many, including those with dementia are excluded from applying and patient access impeded. Legislaton which has been challenged, has been on the basis of human rights.

To help foster greater understanding of how Assisted Dying, or MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying) operates in other countries , Canadian Jule Briese will be speaking alongside global experts at the World Federation Right to Die Global Conference being held in Dun Laoghaire 20/21st September. Whilst here, Jule has welcomed the invitation to speak at this event and we are fortunate to host her.

Join us in The Studio Theatre, on the ground floor level, in the LexIcon in Dun Laoghaire, a short walk along from Dun Laoghaire Dart and Rail Station..

This event will be co-chaired by Carmel Geoghegan, Founder of Dementia Ireland and Janie Lazar, Founder, End of Life Ireland.

‘Glimpses into Alzheimers.’

A rare opportunity to hear first-hand what it means to have legislation for Assisted Dying and the importance of choice.

Canadian Educator Jule Briese reflects on the Alzheimer's journey with her husband Wayne. She will also talk about his decision to have an Assisted Death, what having legislation meant to Wayne being able to choose how and when he would die, at a time which he decided was right for him, and what that meant to their family.

This session will also include a reading of her one act play by two people‘Ten Minutes to Midnight’ drawn from ‘Shared Conversations’, which mapped Wayne and Jule’s journey; both written by Jule as she worked her way through grief. Writing she says was part of her healing journey and Wayne’s legacy to be able to share their learning; to give others ‘Glimpses into Alzheimers.’

With Wayne's full consent, together they documented their journey. Jule now in paying tribute to her husband, hopes that sharing their experience helps families, as well as all healthcare professionals . Justin McKenna from End of Life Ireland will also speak, giving a brief, legal overview of where Ireland stands in light of the recent establishment of the DSS, Decision Support Services and enactment of the 2015 Assisted Decision Making Capacity Act.

There will be time for questions and interaction with the panelists.

Host or Publisher End of Life Ireland