Grandmother's Assisted-Dying Procedure in Ontario Sparks Family's Call for Investigation
An 83-year-old Ontario resident died during a Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) procedure that her granddaughter alleges was performed without proper consent and was marred by a botched IV insertion.
In July, 83-year-old Brigitte Stegemann was scheduled for a Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) procedure at The Pearl residential home in Cannifton, Ontario. Her granddaughter, Brigitte Kranendonk, who had been her caregiver and medical power of attorney, recounts that Stegemann failed a cognitive assessment but was still declared fit for MAiD. On the morning of July 10, a nurse attempted to insert an IV, allegedly without gloves, repeatedly puncturing the arm and causing a large amount of blood to soak the bedding.
The doctor arrived, proceeded with the medication, and Stegemann died within minutes, her hands clasped in prayer. Kranendonk says no consent was obtained that day and that paperwork was completed after the death. She has filed appeals with the Ontario Chief Coroner’s Office, the Patient Ombudsman and Belleville Police, seeking an inquiry into possible procedural violations and ideological pressure from staff.
Why it matters
The case raises concerns about consent, procedural safeguards and oversight of Canada’s assisted-dying program.
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