Episode 25: A Pivotal Moment for End-of-Life Choice in New York with Mandi Zucker

Following our previous episode on the landscape of medical aid in dying laws in California and across the U.S, we now have great news to share: MAID has the potential to pass in two separate states, New York and Illinois.

Our guest, Mandi Zucker, executive director of End-of-Life Choices NY, joins us to talk about what this bill could mean for patients, the current political landscape (Zohran Mamdani’s support of MAID, Gov. Kathy Hocul’s decision), and her background in grief support and end of life care.

Tune in as we explore this pivotal moment for dignity and choice.

This conversation was recorded just one day before the 3rd anniversary of his passing. His legacy continues to inspire our work. 

CHAPTERS:

0:00 Remembering Andrew And Big News

 1:16 Meet Mandi Zucker And Media Advocacy

 3:44 From Schools To Hospice To Purpose

 7:45 Why Aid In Dying Found A Champion

 12:45 The New York Bill’s Path And Safeguards

 18:40 Politics, Choice, And Misconceptions

 24:40 Access, Residency, And Equity

 29:20 Faith, Opposition, And Public Support

 33:20 U.S. Versus Canada: Slippery Slope Myths

 38:00 Grief Work With Children And Families

 44:00 Language, Culture, And Honest Conversations

 49:20 Implementing The Law And Infrastructure

 55:20 Staying Motivated And Community Strength

 1:05:00 Final Appeal And Ways To Help