Honoring Lynda Bluestein

“Medical aid and dying is so centrally important to my soul and to my peace of mind and to ending this one beautiful and amazing life the way I want it to end.” - Lynda Bluestein

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These are the words of our friend and colleague, Lynda Bluestein, who dedicated precious time during the last months of her life to expanding access to medical aid in dying for herself and many others. Lynda, a resident of Connecticut, died in Vermont on January 3, 2024, grateful to be able to use Vermont’s Act 39. 
Lynda was the primary patient advocate whose efforts resulted in the removal of the Vermont residency requirement from our state law in May 2023. She generously shared her story with both local and national news media and eloquently explained why she wanted to receive medical aid in dying when the time came, given her years of experience with multiple cancers and treatments.
​I spoke to Lynda about a month ago as she was arranging to come to Vermont, gather with her family, and say goodbye. Our deepest sympathies go out to her husband, Paul, and all of her friends and family. Lynda’s creative energy and persistence are an inspiration.