Paula Ritchie Wasn’t Dying

for The New York Times Magazine

01 of 15

In Canada a chronically ill woman ends her life with medical assistance, raising urgent questions about choice, care, and dignity.

02 of 15

On assignment for The New York Times Magazine.
Photo Editor: Kristen Geisler
Director of Photography: Jessica Dimson

03 of 15

Paula Ritchie’s life was shaped by childhood abuse, multiple suicide attempts, and a head injury from an assault. She lived with chronic pain and mental-health challenges but was not terminally ill. After a long effort to be approved for MAID, Paula was granted access.

04 of 15

Paula's friends tended to the sidetable beside her bed. They had gathered objects that were important to her: a bible, a scented candle, fresh flowers, and a clock.

05 of 15

Alongside two nurses and the doctor who would administer the medication, several people close to Paula, including her neighbor from Smith Falls, Ontario, were present. Each said a final goodbye before the doctor began the MAID process.

06 of 15

The medication for Paula's death, carried in a traditional doctor's bag, took several minutes to prepare.

07 of 15

Before assisting Paula with her death, the doctor went to the kitchen to prepare several medications to be injected. This included propofol, which he referred to as, "milk of amnesia."

08 of 15

Once the process began, the medication would take moments before Paula was asleep and then dead. Guests comforted Paula as the doctor returned with the medication.

09 of 15

“I’m going to take Paula’s hand now." The doctor began injecting each medication into the line on Paula's right arm.

10 of 15

In Paula’s final moments, the room was quiet. Her childhood friend knelt at the foot of the bed, and her death doula joined her.

11 of 15

Paula had been worried that dying would be painful. The doctor explained to her that once he began injecting the medication she would feel relaxed and fall asleep.

12 of 15

Soon after the medication was administered, the doctor returned to confirm her death and make a note of the time.

13 of 15

Paula’s neighbor and close friend sat with her body for several hours before the funeral home transporters arrived.

14 of 15

Later in her life, Paula had struggled to care for herself. Her nails had grown long and bathing was a challenge.

15 of 15

As the sun set and each guest left Paula's home, two of her friends stayed with the body until it was collected. They then packed up the remaining chairs and left.