Disrupting Death Trailer
Meet our hosts, Kathy Kortes-Miller and Keri-Lyn Durant! A new episode of Disrupting Death will be released every 3rd Friday of every month. Email us at disruptingdeathmaid@gmail.com to subscribe to receive notifications each time a new episode is released. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com/home
01 Sandra Martin
In this first episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri-Lyn have a conversation with Sandra Martin about the history of M.A.i.D in Canada, stories of early M.A.i.D advocates, the importance of leading with an open heart, writing your own obituary, the power of narratives and much more. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide As a journalist for The Globe and Mail, Sandra Martin was known for her books and arts coverage and her perceptive, deeply researched and vividly written obituaries. Sandra Martin is the author of the critically acclaimed national bestseller, A Good Death: Making the Most of Our Final Choices. Winner of the B.C. National Non-Fiction Award and a finalist for both the Dafoe Prize and the Donner Prize in Public Policy, A Good Death was named one of the best books of 2016 by The Globe and Mail, the CBC and several other media outlets. Margaret Atwood has called A Good Death “a timely and deeply felt account of assisted dying: the histories, the issues” and included it on her list of best books about death and dying. A Good Death was published in a revised paperback edition in 2017 with a new chapter on Bill C-14, Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying law (MAID). For more information about Sandra Martin, check out her website! http://www.sandramartinwrites.com/ Links to items mentioned in this episode: Sandra’s Martin’s book: A Good Death: https://www.amazon.ca/Good-Death-Making-Final-Choices/dp/1443435961 Pierre Berton’s Obituary: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/a-voice-of-canada-is-gone-as-pierre-berton-dies-at-84/article18278395/ On Kim Teske’s Death: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/kims-choice-how-one-family-confronts-a-genetic-time-bomb/article19657030/ On John Hofsess: https://reviewcanada.ca/magazine/2022/04/death-of-an-author/ “By The Time You Read This I’ll Be Dead” by John Hofsess: https://torontolife.com/life/john-hofsess-assisted-suicide/ Atul Gwande’s Book: Being Mortal: https://www.amazon.ca/Being-Mortal-Medicine-What-Matters/dp/0805095152 Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com/home This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
02 Jill Bodak
"It's a really deep kind of love, to be willing to let someone go that you're not ready to see go." On this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri speak with Jill Bodak, author of “Loved into Being,” about her experiences grieving, loving and supporting her father following his stroke in 2020, up until his medically assisted death in 2022. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide. Jill Bodak is a Manual Osteopath, Writer, Speaker and Anatomy Educator in Toronto, Ontario. Her debut non fiction work, “Loved Into Being” is a brave and honest depiction of life after stroke through the eyes of a daughter. Jill’s writing navigates the hard and soft spots of her own interior and invites the reader into this private landscape that includes joy, terror, grief and unshakeable love. Jill has a Kinesiology degree from Lakehead University and a Master’s degree in Osteopathic Manual Therapy from The Canadian Academy of Osteopathy. Now, she studies the Emotionally Integrated Voice pedagogy of Fides Krucker and has a ten-year history in the tradition of Zen meditation. She has taught wellness retreats across the country. Since the onset of her father’s stroke in 2020, Jill has been reading, writing, teaching, and helping him heal. She has used the things she learned on his behalf to help countless others with brain injury, cognitive delay, motor deficits and grief. She continues to run a clinical practice that she loves, helping people find a felt sense of their own bodies that lets them move through the world with more ease. You can buy Jill’s book, “Loved into Being: Reflections on Stroke and Being Indestructible” here: https://anatomyonpurpose.com/product/loved-into-being/ Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
03 Senator Pamela Wallin
In this episode, the personal IS political, as hosts Kathy and Keri talk about true choice and advanced requests for MAiD with the honourable senator Pamela Wallin. Please note, this episode was recorded on March 8th, 2023. Since this date, there have been changes to the MAiD legislation that may not be alluded to in this episode by the hosts or Senator Wallin. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Pamela Wallin, O.C., S.O.M. is a Canadian senator, journalist, diplomat, and entrepreneur with a career spanning almost 40 years. Pamela is an Officer of the Order of Canada and a member of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and has received many awards for her public service and achievements. Wallin is also a best-selling author of three books, including her autobiography, Since You Asked. She has worked for various media outlets, including CBC radio, the Toronto Star, and CTV, where she hosted Canada AM and became the Ottawa Bureau chief and anchor of the CTV weekend news. In 1992, Wallin became the first Canadian woman to co-anchor the nightly national television newscast Prime Time News. She founded Pamela Wallin Productions in 1995, an independent television company that proved invaluable in her subsequent public service. To learn more about Pamela Wallin, you can visit her website https://pamelawallin.com/ Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
04 Cynthia Clark
Pajama party at a funeral home! Painting a coffin in a schoolyard! In this episode, Cynthia Clark talks about how she “included, consulted and considered” her children in the process of her husband’s medically assisted death and her writing project, “The Many Faces of MAiD.” Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and leaving us a review on Apple Podcast! Cynthia Clark guided her family through the MAiD experience in 2019 when her husband was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. For nearly a year she was his caregiver & advocate, while simultaneously guiding her children, then 6 and 8 years old, through his decision to have a medically assisted death. It was their family’s mission to normalize death, include the children, and live until it was time to “quit while it was still fun”. Cynthia and her family shared their journey very openly and publicly and continue to use their experience of illness, MAiD, and celebrating death with kids, to help others navigating the MAiD experience with children. Cynthia has a degree in business administration, is a trained coach and seasoned advocate for many causes that she is passionate about. She is a board member of The MAiD Family Support Society (formerly Bridge4you), a member of the planning committee for her local dying with dignity chapter, and an author of an upcoming support book for loved ones living a MAiD experience. In her free time Cynthia enjoys cross country skiing, hiking, writing, and watching her kids play sports. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
05 Bridge C-14's Chelsea Peddle & Lauren Clark
In this episode, Kathy and Keri chat with Lauren and Chelsea of Bridge C-14. By providing meaningful connections and access to resources, Bridge C-14 is a non-profit organization that works to help improve the lives of individuals and their loved ones throughout all stages of the assisted death process across Canada. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Chelsea Peddle is a well-known and respected death doula and counsellor with a focus on children’s grief and a dedicated member of the Bridge C-14 team. She also serves as an advisor with the organization and as one of the co-facilitators of the Meaning Centered Group Therapy Program. Her recent book, Pancakes with Nana is a heartfelt resource for families looking to bring clarity to death, more notably Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in an approachable way. As young readers confront grandparent loss, this read aloud book will bring a sense of togetherness for grieving families. Pancakes with Nana reflects the journey she went on with her own kids when her mother died using MAiD in 2019. It shares the best information available for children's emotional health and ideas to bring families together, told through the heart-warming story of the bond between a grandmother and her grandchild. For more information about Chelsea and her work, please visit her website: www.chelseapeddle.ca In early 2017, Lauren Clark met Jan Ditchfield, the Founder of Bridge C-14, and joined its founding Board of Directors. Lauren took over the organization after Jan stepped down from day-to-day operations in June 2019. Lauren Clark is also a Social Worker at The Ottawa Hospital (TOH). She holds a permanent position in the Medicine Department at the Civic Campus and has been a member of the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) Team at TOH and with the Champlain Regional MAiD Network. Lauren is deeply passionate about providing individuals touched by MAiD with compassionate, peer support throughout their journey with assisted dying. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
06 Rose Finlay
“We are an ecosystem……if our vulnerable citizens are at risk, we are all at risk.” In this episode Kathy and Keri speak with the “wheelchair wonder woman,” Rose Finlay. As an advocate and member of the disabled community, Rose has been using her story to shed light on the ways in which a lack of proper and timely government support results in Canadians with disabilities being “ushered” towards medical assistance in dying. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Rose Finlay, quadriplegic single mom to three boys, has lived 17 years disabled after suffering a spinal cord injury in her teens. For the last few years as a business owner, Rose has found it increasingly more difficult to keep things afloat. She hasn't been able to find adequate personal care support or get community access in her small, suburban town in Ontario. She now has recurring health issues that are directly related to not having the care she needs. As a last attempt at survival, Rose applied for ODSP. The wait time to receive assistance is between 6 to 8 months, with many appeals taking up to 2 years. However, the wait time to access the MAiD program is only 91 days - based on her permanent disability, poor quality of life and declining health. True to her nature, Rose is using her story to help create awareness about how much work needs to be done to close the cracks that our most vulnerable citizens are falling through. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
07 Helen Long, CEO of Dying with Dignity Canada
In this episode Kathy and Keri speak with Helen Long, CEO of Dying with Dignity Canada, an organization whose mission is to ensure access to quality end of life choices and care through advocacy, education and support. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Helen began her career in the not-for-profit sector, working with organizations including ALS Canada, and Mother’s Against Drunk Driving, and Child and Family Services in her local community. Prior to joining Dying With Dignity Canada as CEO in early 2020, Helen was the President of the Canadian Health Food Association, the leading trade association in the natural health sector. With a long track record of informed engagement, Helen led DWDC through the successful passage of Bill C-7, amending Canada’s medical assistance in dying legislation. She has kept DWDC engaged in the subsequent work of the Special Joint Committee, advocating on behalf of people across Canada, educating stakeholders, and engaging supporters on the most pressing issues related to end-of-life rights today. Please visit dyingwithdignity.ca to learn more about this wonderful organization. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
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08 Dr. Stefanie Green
“Assisted dying has really opened the door, not just to dying, but to living.” In this episode Kathy and Keri speak with Dr. Stefanie Green, author of the book “This is Assisted Dying.” Dr. Green sheds light on how Canadian clinicians are engaging thoughtfully with medical assistance in dying Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Dr. Stefanie Green spent 10 years in general practice and another 12 years working exclusively in maternity and newborn care before changing her focus in 2016 to medical assistance in dying (MAiD). Dr. Green is the co-founder and immediate past president of the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP) and co-lead of its Canadian MAiD Curriculum Project. She is a medical advisor to the BC Ministry of Health MAiD oversight committee, moderator of CAMAP’s national online community of practice, and has hosted several national conferences on the topic. Beyond her clinical practice, she frequently speaks about MAiD to a wide range of audiences locally, nationally, and internationally. Dr. Green is clinical faculty at the University of British Columbia and the University of Victoria and, most recently, is the author of the internationally bestselling book THIS IS ASSISTED DYING, a memoir about her first year providing assisted dying in Canada. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
09 Gaye Hanson
Shamanism and Medical Assistance in Dying? In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri engage in an insightful conversation with Gaye Hanson, a shamanic practitioner who combines her expertise as a healthcare policy analyst, researcher, and grief expert with her shamanistic knowledge. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Gaye Hanson is a nurse leader of Cree ancestry with a life-long commitment to community service. She lives in Whitehorse, Yukon and is the mother of one amazing daughter, mother-in-law to a courageous young man and grandmother to two beautiful girls. Gaye is a shamanic practitioner of close to 30 years of experience offering individual, couple and small group sessions, workshops and supported drumming circles. She is also President of Hanson and Associates, an Indigenous management consulting company founded in 1994. As a consultant, she works with Indigenous governments and non-government organizations in program design, delivery and evaluation. Her passions include development of Indigenous and land-based healing programs in areas of loss, grief and grieving; trauma; addictions; wellness and well-being. Gaye is a spirit-led helper who holds a treasured shamanic tradition along with degrees in Nursing and Public Administration. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
10 Tania Stilson
“Fear death less and love life more” In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri speak with Tania Stilson about her father, John Warren, who advocated for Canadians’ access to MAiD right up until the evening before he accessed it himself. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Fact Check: Tania mentions that to qualify for Bridge C-14 support services, individuals need to have completed at least one MAiD assessment. This is accurate for Bridge C-14 1:1 peer support. However, it's important to note that their drop-in sessions and Facebook group are inclusive and welcome anyone in the stages of considering MAiD, in the process of applying, already approved, or found ineligible. Tania Stilson has been sharing the perspective of her family’s MAiD journey (Track 2) since her Dad’s passing in January 2023. She and her Dad shared the belief that, like most good things in life, a good death is worth thinking and talking about. Unique to the story is that her father, John Warren, was a long-time advocate of Medical Assistance in Dying. He sat as the Vice Chair on the Board of Directors for Dying with Dignity Canada from 2011 – 2015, and was responsible for writing letters, opinion pieces, blog posts and being interviewed by radio stations nation-wide. This included the historical events of the Carter Case, which eventually led to the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in 2015. Also unique, is that John’s passing was NOT deemed a reasonably foreseeable natural death, although all other criteria were, of course, met. His MAiD journey was a Track 2 vs. Track 1 experience. An event, according to the latest MAiD in Canada Report (2021), that currently occurs in only 2.2% of the MAiD provisions. Tania’s lived experience has led her to feel that Canadians who know that MAiD is a legal choice, falsely believe it is only for those who are terminally ill. She wants to help to further develop the conversations around all options, and help expand the support, knowledge, and on-going narrative so that Canadians are empowered to discuss the care options that will best align with their values. You can learn more about John Warren’s story here: https://lethbridgeherald.com/news/lethbridge-news/2023/04/21/sacpa-hears-about-one-mans-journey-to-a-death-by-choice/ And watch Tania speak at the Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OH57bh0FG4 Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
11 Simon Malbogat & Catherine Frid
A play about medical assistance in dying? That’s right! In this episode, Kathy and Keri have an enthralling conversation with Catherine Frid and Simon Malbogat, the playwright and director of "Two-Sided Mirror", an interactive play that follows a family whose member is considering MAiD. Through the viewpoints of each family member, the realities of MAID and its implications are explored. The interactive element of the play allows for audience members to find new ways to navigate these challenging circumstances, should they arise. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide You can read more about "Two-Sided Mirror" on mixedcompanytheatre.com Simon Malbogat is a prominent figure in Canada's theatre scene with over 25 years of experience. He has studied with the greatest contemporary popular theatre practitioners and blended Forum Theatre with the Sweet Medicine Teachings (SMT) of the Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society for an innovative theatre and teaching approach. Simon has directed and acted in over 50 new Canadian works, many of which are now seen as important benchmarks in the development of Canadian theatre. Catherine Frid is a Guelph-based playwright whose full-length works have been showcased at prominent venues, such as Toronto Fringe and SummerWorks. She is known for co-creating community-engaged plays and has publications in various collections. Catherine teaches dramaturgy at Ryerson University’s Chang School, has been Playwright in Residence at Mixed Company Theatre, and is the artistic director of Watercourse Theatre. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
11 Kathy Kastner
“I want to ____ until I die.” On this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri speak with entrepreneur, author, and volunteer witness for MAiD Kathy Kastner. With humour and relatability, Kathy discusses the importance of developing more accessible and thoughtful language in healthcare, and the importance of individuals identifying what truly matters to them at the end of their lives. Kathy Kastner became an entrepreneur in the health space when pregnant with her first daughter. Applying skills developed as a television producer and reporter, she co-founded The Health Television System, to create hospital-based patient education TV networks: The Parent Channel and Healthtv, in teaching hospitals across North America. A Twitter chat sparked an interest in palliative, hospice care and medical assistance in dying, leading to creating BestEndings.com, to share as she learned from a patient’s point of view. To dig deeper into MAID, Kathy is a volunteer witness for the necessary paperwork required to begin the MAID approval process. Kathy is an author: 'Death Kills’; her original research, The Whiteboard Experiment, has been published in a peer-reviewed journal. Her TEDxTalk: Exit Laughing; Keynote presentation at Stanford University: Sweat the Small Stuff. YouTube series, ’10-second MedSchool’, on medication administration confusion. She also facilitates workshops on Dying and Death with students in the University of Toronto’s Center for Advancing Collaborative Health and Education. Her personal website KathyKastner.com You can find Kathy on Twittert @kathykastner Instagram: @mybestendings and Youtube: KathyKastnerBestEndings TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbh694DDufk You can buy Kathy’s book, Death Kills, here: https://www.amazon.ca/Death-things-learned-internet-illustrated-ebook/dp/B01LXKFCBV
13 Dr. Jeff Myers
In this episode of Disrupting Death, hosts Kathy and Keri sit down with Dr. Jeff Myers for an insightful interview. Join them as they navigate the complexities and challenges surrounding advance requests and learn more about the relationship between palliative care and medical assistance in dying. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Dr. Jeff Myers is clinically based at Sinai Health’s Palliative Care Unit within the Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital. He is an Associate Professor and is University of Toronto’s Bresver Family Chair in End-of-Life Care & Medical Assistance in Dying within Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s Department of Family and Community Medicine. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
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One Year Anniversary Show!
In this special one year anniversary episode, Kathy and Keri speak with Sarah McInnis, the creator of Disrupting Death's music, and learn more about how Sarah utilizes music to normalize, socialize and honour death dying and grief. In the second half of the episode, the tables are turned as the editor of the podcast, Sadie Mallon, interviews co-hosts Kathy and Keri. Trigger warning: Themes of death, dying and suicide Sarah McInnis is an accomplished songwriter, music therapist, and end of life doula. In 2021 she created The Legacy Song Project. Moving through her own experiences with loss, she wanted to support others doing the same. By interviewing people at the end of life and folks who have lost loved ones, Sarah writes and records personal songs, based on the stories that she hears. In 2023 Sarah released an 8 song album, featuring the songs and stories of everyday people across the four Atlantic-Canadian provinces. The album, THREADS, is a one-of-a-kind collection of songs that gives voice to heartening and heart-breaking experiences of death, grief, love, and loss, and ultimately what it means to be human. Accompanied by a short documentary film, created by filmmakers Aly Kelly & Pat LePoidevin, this project has been making waves across Canada, with its evocative subject matter and the songs that are at its core. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
15 Ruth Steinberg
In this episode of Disrupting Death hosts Kathy and Keri have the distinct pleasure of speaking with Ruth Steinberg about her exhibition, The Leave-Taking, which tells the story of the photo-based artist’s friend and neighbour Alma as she lives her life in the time before her medically assisted death. The subtitle of the exhibition is: What is Given and What is Left: Ruth Steinberg’s Exploration of Living and Dying Authentically. Listen how she discusses her relationship to her subject within the context of both spaces as well as in the liminal space in between. Ruth Steinberg is a photo-based artist who uses the camera as a tool to open doors of conversation, uplifting the voices of her subjects. Through visual storytelling she examines facets of dignity, resilience, and presence within marginalised communities, particularly with the elderly. Her work has been shown across North America and internationally including the Karsh-Masson Gallery in Ottawa, LACP: Centre of Photography in California, PhotoPlace Gallery in Vermont, and FotoNostrum, Mediterranean House of Photography in Barcelona. In 2017, as part of an intergenerational chain of mentorship, Steinberg was selected to exhibit in Continuum: Karsh Award artists welcome a new generation. In 2022 she received the first place for the Figureworks Award and in 2023 she was a Photolucida Critical Mass 200 finalist. Steinberg’s exhibition, The Leave-Taking, discussed in this episode, is a finalist for the Project X photography prize in Ottawa, results of which will be announced May 21. Music for Disrupting Death was created by Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist, and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Sadie Mallon.
16 Tekla Hendrickson MAiDHouse
This episode of Disrupting Death has hosts Kathy and Keri involved in a conversation about MAiDHouse with Tekla Hendrickson, Executive Director. MAiDHouse is a non-profit organisation devoted to providing those eligible to receive medical assistance in dying (MAiD) with a supportive, inclusive, and comfortable setting. MAiDHouse provides information, resources, and services for those eligible to receive MAiD, families, and healthcare providers. The first MAiDHouse location is in Toronto, Canada. Tekla Hendrickson has extensive experience, locally and internationally, in managing, operating, and advising not-for-profits in the areas of health promotion, homelessness, and women’s rights. Tekla has co-authored articles on developing processes to engage marginalized women in research, policy, and practice; the issue of homelessness and developing shared solutions. Tekla is a past board member of Women’s College Hospital, Unit Director of Sistering, Provincial Director of Ontario Women’s Health Network and co-founder of Toronto Community Based Research Network and Inclusion Research. Tekla has been a member of the Disability and Women Advisory Committee for the Association for Women Action and Research - Singapore. Tekla was a delegate at The Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (2008). In this episode, Tekla mentions the MAiDHouse Memory Quilt Project. You can find more events and information at MAiDHouse. Music for Disrupting Death was created by Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist, and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Sadie Mallon.
17 Marcy Lane
In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri chat with Marcy Lane, author of A Mercy of Widows, a debut novel that “interweaves the tapestry of real emotion with the threads of a captivating narrative.” We invite you to sit back and listen as the conversation unfolds about MAiD, grief, Canada’s legal system, and why dogs are simply the best! At 60, Marcy has transmuted the trials of her own life—including being widowed twice to cancer—into a wellspring of resilience that pours into her character-driven storytelling. Marcy's journey is marked by academic distinction with three degrees, a reflective mind, and a heart devoted to the causes she believes in. Her 24 years at the helm of a charity speak to a lifetime commitment to making a difference, paralleled by the deep empathy she extends to her characters. Grief's shadow, particularly the complex grief Marcy faced following her second loss, has led to a profound understanding of the human condition, an understanding that breathes life into her tales. A Mercy of Widows is not autobiographical, but the emotions within are a mirror to grief—real, raw, and unfiltered. Now nestled in a cozy cottage in southwestern Ontario with her dogs, Bug and Lucy, Marcy finds solace and inspiration by Lake Erie. Her home is a sanctuary where she crafts stories that navigate through life's thorniest issues with grace and depth. Marcy’s writing is not just an exploration but a tribute to the resilience and complexity of ordinary folks, shining a light on the silent struggles and unsung triumphs that define us all. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
Bonus episode: Patrick Durivage
Dans cet épisode, et un changement dans le format habituel, Keri-Lyn et Alyssa Laflamme discutent avec Patrick Durivage et ont une riche discussion sur les soins palliatifs et l'AMM au Québec à travers le point de vue d'un travailleur social. Travailleur social au programme de soins à domicile du CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Patrick Durivage s’intéresse aux soins palliatifs dispensés aux personnes âgées en contexte à domicile. Il dispense des formations aux professionnels de la santé et des services sociaux sur les problématiques vécues par les personnes en fin de vie et par les personnes proches aidantes. En tant que praticien-chercheur, M. Durivage collabore avec des partenaires universitaires sur de nombreux projets de recherche dans le domaine. Il est coauteur de publications sur les soins palliatifs à domicile et fait des présentations sur le sujet lors de congrès nationaux et internationaux. Nommé par son ordre professionnel, il est commissaire à la Commission de fin de vie du Québec qui examine toute question relative aux soins de fin de vie et veille à l’application des exigences relatives à l’aide médicale à mourir. Il est également membre du Conseil des soins palliatifs de McGill, qui vise à sensibiliser le public aux soins palliatifs. Music for Disrupting Death a été créé par la toujours charmante Sarah McInnis. Sarah est musicothérapeute, auteure-compositrice, multi-instrumentiste et Doula de fin de vie. En 2021, Sarah a lancé The Legacy Song Project, écrivant des chansons originales pour les personnes en fin de vie et pour les personnes qui ont perdu des êtres chers. Pour en savoir plus sur Sarah, visitez son site Web https://sarahmcinnis.com Cet épisode de Disrupting Death a été édité par Alyssa Laflamme et Sadie Mallon.
18 Dr. Jyothi Jayaraman
In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri speak with Dr. Jyothi Jayaraman, joining us to share her views on an issue of great interest to both her and us: forced transfers. Dr. Jayaraman reached out to Disrupting Death to highlight her ongoing quest to eradicate forced transfer of MAiD recipients from institutions refusing provision. In addition to conversation about forced transfers in general terms and the specific choice made by Dr. Jayaraman, this episode also includes discussion about the forced transfer of Samantha O’Neill in April of 2023. https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/woman-with-terminal-cancer-forced-to-family-upset-by-st-pauls-hospital-maid-policy Dr. Jyothi Jayaraman, MBBS, MD CCFP (PC) is Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Practice (Division of Palliative Care) at the University of British Columbia. She practised as a family doctor and palliative care physician for 20+ years. In 2016, Dr. Jayaraman became a MAiD practitioner. She retired from family practice in 2021. In February of 2023 she resigned from her job as a palliative Care physician in hospice over the issue of forced transfers. Dr. Jayaraman continues to be a MAID Assessor and Provider. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.
21 MAiD & Digital Storytelling:
Part One - Diane Sims
I made this recording because I’m suffering and want to check out on my own terms with MAiD. I want to educate why MAiD is so valuable. So far, my support workers and my husband have been able to care for me. I never want a waiting-for-God nursing home. I am a writer, a communicator, and when I can’t speak or keyboard then it’s time to kiss and raise my hand in farewell.
22 Dr. Julia Brassolotto
In this episode of Disrupting Death Kathy and Keri are honoured to be sitting down with Dr. Julia Brassolotto to talk about MAiD in rural Alberta, as well as representations of MAiD in Canadian, and international, news media. Julia Brassolotto is an Associate Professor in the Public Health program at the University of Lethbridge. She is a qualitative researcher and a social scientist. Her research program looks at care for older adults, with a focus on continuing care, community, and end-of-life contexts. Broadly, her research interests include aging and care work, death and dying, social determinants of health, and health care ethics. Julia began learning about MAiD during her M.A. in Philosophy and Bioethics. During her Ph.D. in Health Policy and Equity, she became interested and engaged in health services research. Years later, these interests converged, and she led a SSHRC-funded project on MAiD in rural Alberta. Findings from that study are available at www.maidinsights.com. She is the Principal Investigator of a new SSHRC Insight project that will use a feminist political economy lens to examine notions of autonomy and vulnerability in MAiD discourse and practice. For additional information about Dr. Brassotto’s work, please click on the links below: Project website: www.maidinsights.com Publications on MAiD: https://www.maidinsights.com/publications Recent press: https://www.mylethbridgenow.com/45634/news/u-of-l-researchers-receive-insight-and-insight-development-grants/ Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Sadie Mallon.
23 Dr. Dirk Huyer
In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri-Lyn have the privilege of learning about the role of the Office of the Chief Coroner in medical assistance in dying (MAiD) from Dr. Dirk Huyer, Chief Coroner for Ontario since March of 2014. Dr. Huyer received his medical degree from the University of Toronto in 1986. He has served as a coroner in Ontario since 1992, serving as Regional Supervising Coroner between 2008 and 2013. He has been directly involved in over 5,000 coroner’s investigations. Dr. Huyer has specific expertise in the medical evaluation of child maltreatment and has worked with the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Program at the Hospital for Sick Children. He is also an Assistant Professor with the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Toronto. Since early 2016, Dr. Huyer has been actively involved in Ontario’s response to Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). He led the implementation of the reporting and oversight process followed by the Office of the Chief Coroner. Dr. Huyer has continued involvement with MAiD bringing perspective of the post death review process to policy tables and professional meetings. The approach to MAiD deaths has continued to evolve under Dr. Huyer’s leadership with successful implementation of a team of specialised nurse investigators dedicated to MAiD review and oversight with recent enhancement of the review process through the newly formed MAiD Death Review Committee. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Sadie Mallon.
24 Dr. Konia Trouton
"Everyone has a toast; one person's toast is lethal." In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri-Lyn lean in to learn from Dr. Konia Trouton, BSc MD CCFP MPH FCFP, about the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP) [https://camapcanada.ca/] and providing MAiD in non-medical settings. Dr. Trouton is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Family Practice at UBC, and a Clinical Lecturer in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at University of Toronto. She completed medical training at the Queen’s University in 1990, residency in Calgary and is a Master of Public Health through Harvard University. She has been committed to social justice and patient choice throughout her career. Dr Trouton has worked in several provinces and territories in public health and reproductive care. She participates in many research and teaching initiatives. In 2016, she added MAiD to her practice as an assessor and provider. She co-founded the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers (CAMAP) and is the current President. She is involved in the development and leadership of several regional and national initiatives in MAiD, including the Canadian MAiD Curriculum. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Sadie Mallon.
25 Marney Thompson & Robin Farr
In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri-Lyn have the distinct pleasure of speaking with Marney Thompson, Director of Bereavement Services at Victoria Hospice and an executive member of the Canadian Grief Alliance, and Robin Farr, of the MAID Family Support Society, about MAiD grief and bereavement around the holidays. Marney Thompson is the Director of Bereavement Services at Victoria Hospice and an executive member of the Canadian Grief Alliance. She is the recent recipient of the King Charles Coronation Medal in recognition of her contribution to the field of bereavement care. She is an experienced conference presenter, clinical co-lead of the BC Psychosocial ECHO project, and a counsellor in private practice. In addition to these roles, she is also co-author of the award-winning book, “Transitions in Dying and Bereavement,” and a number of peer-reviewed articles related to psychosocial palliative care, medical assistance in death, and prolonged grief. In 2012, she was part of the international “Train the Trainers” pilot project with the Center for Prolonged Grief at Columbia University and has continued to work and study in this area of grief. Robin Farr supported her father through MAID in 2021 and then joined MAID Family Support Society to help fill the gap in support for others doing the same for a loved one. She acts as program manager for the organisation in addition to volunteering as a peer supporter and serving on the board of directors. In her other life, Robin leads HR for a mental health company; she lives in Calgary with her two children and her dog. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.
26 Dr. Christine Gibson
This month’s episode of Disrupting Death has Kathy and Keri-Lyn speaking with Dr. Christine Gibson, aka TikTokTraumaDoc, about her experiences with MAiD and her book, The Modern Trauma Tool Kit. A Family Medicine physician with academic expertise in medical education and holistic care, with twenty years of clinical experience. Through extensive additional specialty training, has become a local and national leader in education and practice related to health inequity and trauma healing. As Christy Gibson MD, she is a Mental Health Influencer on Tiktok as @tiktoktraumadoc and has published a book with Hachette Go / John Murray for The Modern Trauma Toolkit. The book is available in paperback, digital, and audio formats. It is an accessible, solutions-focused look at the stress of modern times. She is involved in collaborative research both locally and globally. A strong leader and advocate, promotes healthy communities in Canada and overseas. As founder, ED, and consultant through Global Familymed Foundation she works with Universities in resource-poor environments in strengthening and building capacity for primary care postgraduate training; with involvement in projects in Laos, Nepal, Myanmar, Ethiopia, and throughout East Africa. Locally, Chirstine integrates comprehensive, strength-based healing with social justice for those most vulnerable to poor outcomes due to social determinants of health and adverse childhood experiences. She uses Social Innovation approaches towards enhancing agency and resilience, at both community and individual levels. She founded The Healing Centred Cooperative in 2020, which successfully ran a music and breath program for immigrants through the City of Calgary’s Change Can’t Wait Mental Health and Addiction grant. More recently, she co-founded Safer Spaces Training which trains professionals to create psychological safety at work. The Belong Foundation is a group of free training programs with similar intent. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.
27 Dr. Sydney Campbell
"When we're thinking about the benefit of conversations about MAiD, this is a time where we can pause and have educational conversations like so many of the ones that you have on the podcast to think about what a young person or any person wants." This month, Kathy and Keri-Lyn are excited and privileged to explore the issue of mature minors in relation to MAiD legislation with Dr. Sydney Campbell, PhD. Sydney Campbell is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Faculty of Medicine at Dalhousie University, having recently completed her PhD in the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto wherein she generated conceptual and empirical evidence to inform ongoing discussions related to Medical Assistance in Dying for mature minors in Canada. As a whole, Sydney’s work aims to advance perspectives on the participation and engagement of young people, rethinking policy action and analysis with a child-inclusive lens, and improving children’s overall health and well-being in several facets of their lives, including in end-of-life contexts. In April of 2024, the Canadian College of Health Leaders is pleased to announce that Sydney Campbell, PhD was been named the recipient of the 2024 Healthcare Management Forum Article of the Year Award for her article entitled “Re-examining medical assistance in dying for mature minors in Canada: Reflections for health leaders”. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.
28 Chris Reid
“When we're brought into this world more often than not … there's all this love coming for birthing in a human being to this world, right? And I felt like that same kind of energy was given to them on their way out.” This month, your hosts of Disrupting Death sit down with Chris Reid, a storyteller, military veteran, and founder of Stretch Creative, about his experiences in 2024 when two very important people in his life chose to access MAiD, and within eight days of one another. Stretch Creative is a content agency that partners with freelance creatives to produce meaningful and impactful narratives. Drawing on his experience as a submariner, Chris brings discipline, adaptability, and a unique perspective to his work. At Stretch, he is deeply committed to fostering a sense of community among freelance writers, editors, and designers, ensuring they feel supported and valued while delivering exceptional content for clients. Chris is also a devoted husband and stepfather, roles that inspire his passion for creating work rooted in empathy and connection. In April 2024, he experienced the profound loss of both his mother and grandmother, who chose MAiD within eight days of each other. This life-changing event became the catalyst for his first documentary, exploring the complexities of MAiD and its emotional impact on families. While Stretch occupies much of his time, Chris remains dedicated to sharing stories that matter, building communities, and inspiring meaningful conversations through storytelling. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.
29 Kelley Korbin
”I think we need to know that the possibilities are out there, that MAiD's not just a medical procedure, that even though this healthcare professional is coming with their kit and their medications and all of their social authority that they bring with them, that we get to slow it down and do some important things to remember our person.” This month, Kathy and Keri-Lyn have the pleasure and privilege of sitting down with Kelley Korbin to talk about her father’s death, the role of rites and ceremonies around MAiD, and writing it all down. Kelley Korbin is a Vancouver-based communications professional. Her writing has appeared in the Globe and Mail, CBC, Ski Canada Magazine, and The Jewish Independent Newspaper along with countless crisis communication plans, corporate annual reports, and press releases. She did, however, draw the line at ghostwriting goodbye letters from her father to his six grandchildren. Like many people who’ve experienced MAID, Kelley found her dad’s 2022 death and the parade of lasts that preceded it to be a transformative and surprisingly healing rite of passage. As a palliative care volunteer for Vancouver Coastal Health and a MAID Family Support Society peer support volunteer, Kelley feels privileged to spend much of her spare time supporting dying people and their friends and family. She is writing a reported memoir about her father’s last days, entitled Exit Stage Rite: Lessons for a Brand New Way of Dying. Kelley holds a BA in cultural anthropology from the University of British Columbia, an MA in Journalism from Western, and is currently pursuing an MFA in creative nonfiction at the University of King’s College in Halifax. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.
30 Paul Magennis
In this month’s episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri-Lyn have the pleasure of speaking with Paul Magennis, a Registered Nurse and educator on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in British Columbia and co-creator of MAiD in Canada, a Substack newsletter that tackles misinformation and promotes education about medical assistance in dying. With over seven years of experience in MAiD, Paul has the expertise to provide fact-based education to healthcare professionals and the public. He has taught the nuances of MAiD to health care professionals at every level--including guest lecturing to medical students and residents--ensuring they understand the legal, ethical, and practical aspects of MAiD. Beyond the clinical setting, Paul is a writer and public educator tackling misinformation and disinformation about MAiD. He and his partner, Kim Carlson—also a Registered Nurse—run MAiD in Canada, a Substack newsletter that breaks down complex issues, addresses public misconceptions, and engages with the latest policy discussions. Their work has become a trusted resource for those seeking clear, evidence-based information. Paul’s advocacy extends beyond writing. He offers free speaking engagements in an effort to ensure as many people have access to accurate and compassionate information about MAiD as possible. Whether addressing fears stirred by viral misinformation or exploring the legal landscape of assisted dying in Canada, Paul is committed to fostering informed, respectful conversations about this deeply personal and evolving issue. Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever-lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website https://sarahmcinnis.com. This episode of Disrupting Death was produced by Keri-Lyn Durant and Sadie Mallon.