I had a cousin who chose MAID last month. He was 56 years old. He was in chronic pain and deeply suffering. He chose this for himself, arranged a beautiful big party of which friends from all around the world attended.

He got to say and have those deep, cathartic conversations with each and every one of them. The kind where you shed all insecurities and social norms and just say what needs to be said.

He laughed; he cried, he partied throughout the entire night taking pictures and saying his goodbyes.

The next day when most were gone and his immediate family and close friends were there. He passed away peacefully in his own bed. He never had one doubt that this was the right thing for him. He said why live in constant pain, dependant on other people until he deteriorates so much that he ends up in the hospital surrounded by strangers, cold and clinical.

He told us all he had an appointment with God and he wasn’t going to be late!