Compassion & Choices Magazine: Spring 2026

The movement for end-of-life autonomy is at an inflection point — and if you’re reading this letter, you helped get us here. 

Propelled by real people’s stories, over the past year we’ve achieved major legislative wins, realized legal victories, and strengthened partnerships with community leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and civil rights allies. 

From the statehouse to the exam room to the kitchen table, more people than ever are demanding the right to make their own decisions about their care. 

Medical aid in dying is just one part of this movement. Our work is holistic: improving hospice and palliative care, empowering people to plan for the end-of-life experience they want, and protecting patient decision-making. 

The stories in these pages demonstrate just how interconnected these different parts of our work are. Ken Pauley’s wife, Chris, worked with her oncology team at UC Davis and her pharmacist to continue pursuing treatment for her cancer while also qualifying for medical aid in dying. Here’s what Ken shared about their experience: 

“Throughout our journey, we realized how important it is to know what your options are — it’s not just going through or declining treatment. You also have a choice in how you manage your care, and that includes how you want your life to end.”

Other stories highlight the role community plays in end-of-life care: Fran Volkmann’s wife, Joan, cherished her last days during VSED surrounded by loved ones; Sera Passalaqua’s sister Christina took her aid-in-dying medication in a room with thirty friends and family members wearing Mickey Mouse ears in a tribute to her desire to go to Disneyland.

These stories are proof of what this movement can do, of what’s possible when people have access to compassionate end-of-life care in line with their values. That's the world we're building — together.

With gratitude,