Jamie McNeil is a retired nurse of more than 30 years who now works with Georgians for End of Life Options and advocates alongside Death with Dignity to ensure everyone has the right to make their own end-of-life decisions.

When my sister, Jennifer, was diagnosed with ALS—a brutal, fatal disease that slowly robs you of every muscle—her first words to me were, “I am not going to take this disease to the end. Please find out about Death with Dignity for me.”

She wasn’t afraid of dying. She was terrified of how she would die—slowly suffocating as her respiratory muscles failed. I researched California’s End of Life Option Act, and when I told her she qualified, she said,

“Knowing I have this option, I am so relieved. I can spend the rest of my life living, instead of being filled with fear of how I’m going to die.”

Jennifer wanted to change the narrative around death. She wanted a “beautiful passing,” one filled with love rather than fear. As her caregiver for eight months, we talked openly about what was coming. We shared memories, laughed, cried, and planned every detail together.

When she decided it was time, she invited her closest friends and family to say goodbye. One by one, we sat with her, looked into her eyes, and told her what she meant to us. Unable to speak, she replied through her computer, each word typed with her gaze. It was intimate and powerful beyond words.

On the day she chose, we lit candles around her bed. I climbed in beside her, holding her in my arms as she peacefully left this world. I never imagined my sister’s death could be one of the most beautiful and profound moments of my life—but it was.

Having the option of medical aid in dying let Jennifer beat ALS in her own way. It gave her back control, allowed her to die on her own terms, and brought dignity and grace to her final chapter.

As a nurse for more than 30 years, I’ve seen the stark difference between a good death and a hard one. That experience—and the gift my sister was given—drives my advocacy today. I work with Georgians for End of Life Options, and we advocate alongside Death with Dignity to push for laws that give everyone the right to make their own end-of-life choices. No one should be forced to endure needless suffering when there is a compassionate alternative.

My sister’s death was so profound, that I continue to honor her by sharing her story far and wide. It matters. It changes minds and laws, and your voice can help expand end-of-life choices too. Share your story now!