When my dad, Bob, was nearing the end of his battle with cancer, I never expected our last days together to be filled with laughter, joy, and peace. But that’s exactly what we experienced, thanks to Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD).
The Struggle Before VAD
Dad’s cancer was aggressive, and after various treatments failed, he was placed in palliative care. We feared he would die in a hospital, just as he had dreaded. That’s when someone mentioned VAD. We had never heard of it before, but once we spoke to a VAD care navigator, everything changed. Within days, we moved from feeling hopeless to finding a way for Dad to die on his own terms.
Dad’s Quick Decision
Once Dad understood VAD, his decision was clear: “I want this, and I want it now.” It wasn’t a difficult decision for us as a family, even though we had questions. The medical team reassured us every step of the way, answering our concerns with compassion and professionalism.
A Transformation in Dad
Once approved for VAD, Dad transformed. The day he got his approval, he could barely walk, but just days later, he was out enjoying his favorite things—coffee, the beach, and lunch with friends. These final 48 hours were filled with laughter, deep talks, and cherished memories.
A Peaceful Goodbye
On the day of his passing, Dad had a peaceful and loving farewell. He spent time with family, had one last toast with Moët, and then peacefully passed away in his sleep after sharing a final kiss with Mum.
The Gift of Time
Though the grief of losing Dad still stings, I’m thankful for the time VAD gave us. Instead of a rushed goodbye, we had the chance to cherish every moment with him. Choosing VAD didn’t stop the grief, but it gave us peace and allowed Dad to pass in a way that honored his wishes. It was a rare gift in a time of sorrow.
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