Celebrated children's writer Robert Munsch has been approved for medically assisted dying in Canada. Munsch, whose 85 published books include The Paper Bag Princess and Love You Forever, was diagnosed with dementia in 2021 and also has Parkinson's disease. The 80-year-old author told the New York Times Magazine that he had not decided a date for his death, but said he would go 'when I start having real trouble talking and communicating. Then I'll know.' Canada first legalised euthanasia in 2016 for people with terminal illnesses. In 2021, the law was changed to include those with serious and chronic physical conditions, even in non-life threatening circumstances. Munsch has sold more than 80 million copies of his books in North America alone and they have been translated into at least 20 languages, including Arabic and Spanish. In 1999, Munsch was made a member of the Order of Canada, and a decade later, he received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in Toronto. Influenced by watching his brother die from Lou Gehrig's disease, Munsch reflected, 'They kept him alive through all these interventions. I thought, let him die.' In Canada, only those over the age of 18 with a serious and incurable illness who make a voluntary request may qualify for assisted dying, following assessments by independent medical professionals. Scholastic praised Munsch's decision to go public, reminding us of the impact of his work across generations. His daughter Julie also clarified that while her father has made this decision, he is not in immediate health crisis and retains the ability to consent at the time of his death.
Famed Children's Author Robert Munsch Approved for Assisted Dying
Famed Children's Author Robert Munsch Approved for Assisted Dying
Robert Munsch, the beloved Canadian children's author, has received approval for medically assisted dying due to his battle with dementia and Parkinson's disease. Known for classics like 'The Paper Bag Princess,' Munsch reflects on his decision in an interview.
Canadian writer Robert Munsch, famous for his children's books including 'Love You Forever,' has been approved for medically assisted dying. At 80 years old, Munsch expressed in a recent interview that he would consider ending his life when he can no longer communicate effectively. Diagnosed with dementia in 2021, Munsch’s decision has been influenced by personal experiences, notably watching his brother suffer from ALS. In Canada, assisted dying has been legal since 2016, allowing individuals with serious illnesses to pursue this option. Scholastic, Munsch's publisher, acknowledged the impact of his work and his decision on generations of readers.
