Calgary judge rules 27-year-old woman with autism can kill herself through medical assistance in dying (MAID)

Due to a publication ban, the individuals involved can only be referred to as MV, a 27-year-old woman approved by two doctors for medical assistance in dying ("MAID"), and WV, identified as MV's father.

The father, WV, expressed concerns about his daughter's vulnerability and her competence in deciding to end her own life. He argued that MV, who lives with him and has autism and ADHD but no other health issues, may not be capable of making such a decision.

Court documents revealed that MV did not contest her father's claims or provide details about her medical condition, symptoms, or suffering beyond being approved for MAID by two doctors.

MV asserted that her father had no authority to challenge her private medical decisions or the clinical judgment of her doctors. She argued that her decision to pursue MAID was personal, private, and not subject to court review, emphasizing her autonomy and right to die with dignity.

On February 1, 2024, MV was scheduled to receive MAID, but her father filed an injunction that was granted on January 31, 2024, by Justice Belzil, postponing the procedure.

Today, a Calgary judge, Justice Colin C.J. Feasby, ruled in favor of MV, saying, "I do not know you and I do not know why you seek MAID. Your reasons remain your own because I have respected your autonomy and your privacy. My decision recognizes your right to choose a medically assisted death."

Justice Feasby did issue a 30-day stay of his decision to allow WV to appeal to the Alberta Court of Appeal, maintaining the interim injunction for the next month.