MAID DOULA

What is MAID under California law?

• MAID — also called “medical aid in dying” — is the option for a terminally-ill adult in California to request a prescription for life-ending medication which they may choose to self-administer. 
• The law that enables MAID in California is the End of Life Option Act (EOLOA), which went into effect June 9, 2016. 

Who qualifies for MAID in California?

To be eligible under EOLOA / MAID, a person must:

• Be at least 18 years old and a California resident. 
• Have a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less to live, as determined by their doctor (and confirmed by a second physician). 
• Have the mental capacity to make medical decisions — meaning they understand the nature and consequences of the decision.
• Be physically capable of self-ingesting the prescribed aid-in-dying medication.
• Make the verbal and written requests voluntarily, without coercion. 

Participation is always voluntary — neither patients nor physicians or healthcare facilities are forced to take part.

How can you support me if I choose MAID?

I offer non-medical, emotional, practical, and spiritual support throughout the MAID process and preparing for day of death. While medical and legal steps are handled by physicians and pharmacists, I help you and your loved ones feel prepared, supported, and grounded.

Do you give medical or legal advice about MAID?

No. I do not provide medical, legal, or eligibility advice. Your healthcare team guides you through the medical and legal requirements. I collaborate with your hospice company. I support everything around those steps—emotionally, logistically, and relationally.

What kinds of emotional support do you offer?

I provide a calm, compassionate presence as you navigate your decision and preparations. This may include:

• Space to talk through emotions, fears, or reflections
• Guidance for loved ones who may have questions or concerns
• Support in creating meaning, peace, and intention during this time

Can you help me understand the MAID process?

Yes—at a general, educational level. I can help you:

• Understand the overall sequence of steps
• Prepare for conversations with your physicians and hospice company
• Organize documents, witness needs, or appointments
• Clarify your wishes and plan for the day of medication self-ingestion

I do not determine eligibility or provide clinical guidance—those are the responsibilities of your medical team.

Will you be there on the day I take the medication?

Yes. If you choose, I can be present to:

• Offer emotional support
• Hold space for you and your loved ones
• Create a peaceful environment
• Assist with rituals, music, readings, or final wishes

What support do you offer for my loved ones?

I help family and caregivers:

• Understand what to expect emotionally
• Communicate clearly and compassionately
• Prepare for the experience
• Feel supported before, during, and after your passing
• Stay with your body until it is picked up by the mortuary

After death, I can provide early grief support and help loved ones through immediate next steps.

Can you help create a meaningful experience on the day of MAID?

Absolutely. Many people choose to make the day intentional and personal. 

I can help you design:

• Rituals, readings, or spiritual elements
• Music or environmental comforts
• Legacy projects, letters, or messages
• A plan for who is present and how the time will feel

This allows the experience to reflect your values and wishes.

Do you offer support if I choose a different end-of-life option?

Yes. I support individuals choosing hospice care, comfort-focused care, VSED, or natural dying processes. My role is to honor your choices and help you create a compassionate, supported transition—whatever path you choose.