As summer approaches, know that our ongoing programs continue through the summer months. We appeal to you to please consider making a donation as we need your support now more than ever.
As you are aware we continue to provide our regular programs, which include:
¨ 24/7 toll-free helpline (1-855-675-8749) providing advice and support regarding euthanasia and assisted suicide prevention and end of life care, especially for seniors.
In recent weeks, we have experienced a surge of calls to the “hope line”. I want to share three of them with you in this letter to provide a contrast to the case of Nicola, a man in his 80s whose family we advocated for.
¨ "Being With, My Story" Visitor training seminars across Canada for volunteers who want to support the elderly, sick, and isolated in their communities.
¨ “Patient Advocacy” training for volunteers to become effective advocates in the healthcare system. We empower participants to support the most vulnerable—particularly the elderly, shut-ins, and people with disabilities.
¨ Community of Hope Outreach: Connecting with Seniors Project a national project which matches seniors who want companionship by phone with trained volunteers. Funding for this program officially ended in March. CCC now bears the financial load to enable it to continue.
June 4th, 2025 marked three years since the death of Nicola Marchione, a previously healthy man who passed away in hospital under troubling circumstances. Questions remain about the events leading to his death—particularly around informed consent and a lack of transparency. His family continues to seek justice. His daughter, Angela Marchione-Faragher, is determined to share their story to raise public awareness and advocate for systemic change.
Please read the press release on CCC’s website and consider signing the petition via Change.org, “Pass the Nicola Marchione ‘My Body, My Right’ Law”. This is legislation that would help ensure patients are fully informed and respected in their care. Despite setbacks, Nicola did everything he could to fight for his life. CCC has advocated for Angela and the Marchione family over the past two years.
In contrast, the helpline recently received calls from three men (not their real names), each expressing feelings of abandonment and despair. Ben is in his 60s and in rehab. He told us, “I know they’d rather I die by “MAiD” than keep spending taxpayer dollars to keep me here.” John is in his 50s and cannot afford a scooter to get to the store. He wants to die; he was referred to CCC as a last resort. John refuses in-person help because he says, “accepting help isn’t dignified.” Eric is a recent immigrant in his 40s and is on his own. He knows euthanasia is an option, but he wants to live. We continue to support these men as best we can.
Many people reach out to us for hope. We speak love into the lives of those who feel invisible. The summer is here, donations are down, and a possible postal strike may affect the help we can provide. Our bank account balance is low, and while we await responses from a few donors, nothing is guaranteed. While others plan vacations, we’re simply trying to keep our lines open and fulfill our mission.
Last month, Director Kathy Matusiak Costa received a standing ovation following her speech given to over 100 guests at an annual dinner and fundraiser in Walkerton (see first picture below). The second picture is from an event in Mississauga. You can listen to Kathy and Suzanne’s interview with Radio Maria on www.beingwith.org
Your support is so important. Whether you give one time, increase your monthly gift or become a monthly donor, every contribution enables us to continue our life-affirming work. Call 519-439-6445 or donate online at www.beingwith.org/donate, by cheque mailed to our address, or e-Transfer to info@beingwith.org
We will issue official donation receipts for donations received from March 1st to Dec 31st 2025 in early 2026. Your support is more vital than ever, every donation helps us to continue this essential work.
Thank you for being part of stronger, more compassionate communities.