2024 Annual Fund Update

 

Dear friend,

I wanted to tell you about our significant legal victory for end-of-life autonomy in California. A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit that jeopardized medical aid in dying in the nation's most populous state, preserving the right of terminally ill people to choose a peaceful end to their suffering.

An anonymous donor was so inspired by the court’s decision they pledged to match all gifts for the remainder of the Annual Fund campaign!

Compassion & Choices’ legal team alongside our dedicated partners took action to defend the constitutionality of California's End of Life Option Act (EOLOA). We filed a motion to intervene on behalf of three patients with disabilities and two doctors asserting that the lawsuit's discrimination claims were unfounded. Following our motion and a motion from the state defendants to dismiss, the judge issued an order to “dismiss the claims with prejudice,” barring the plaintiffs from refiling the case.

Since its enactment in 2015, the EOLOA has faced near-constant attacks from those seeking to undermine its provisions. As guardians of end-of-life autonomy, Compassion & Choices and our allies have stood firm and done everything possible to defend the law.

Protect medical aid in dying today!

So despite this recent victory, we must remain vigilant. The threat of appeal looms, and opponents of medical aid in dying continue to target similar laws nationwide. That's why I'm asking you to support our 2024 Annual Fund.

Your generosity is crucial in our ongoing efforts to protect and defend end-of-life options. It ensures that we have the resources needed to confront legal challenges, pass merciful legislation and support people facing difficult end-of-life decisions.

Support this vital work by donating to the 2024 Annual Fund!

As we celebrate the court’s decision, renew your commitment to cultivate compassion and preserve everyone’s right to make informed choices about their care. Please consider giving to our 2024 Annual Fund today. Together, we can ensure that compassionate end-of-life options remain accessible to all who need them.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Warm regards,

Kevin Díaz
Chief Legal Advocacy Officer
Compassion & Choices