Medical Advocacy: How Do I Advocate?

By Bill Vassilopoulos

I’ve been educating the public through workshops, blogging, writing, and public speaking about suicide intervention for over a decade. One question that rarely comes up, but is critically important, is this: How do I effectively advocate for someone with thoughts of suicide or a history of attempts?

It’s a vital question—because informed, present advocacy can save lives. Every life is special, unrepeatable, and valuable. Protecting and preserving life is a responsibility we must take seriously.

In Canada, Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is increasingly presented as an option for those seeking to escape physical pain, mental anguish, or financial hardship. Just ten years ago, most Canadians would have found these reasons for assisted death unacceptable, believing that such challenges could be overcome with time, professional support, and the love of community.

Understanding the System

Today, it is crucial to understand the procedural reality of the system. While the law requires that two independent physicians or nurse practitioners must assess and confirm eligibility, the system allows for a process of serial assessment—meaning a patient can seek assessments until they find two providers who agree with their request. Furthermore, healthcare staff—including nurses or social workers—can facilitate the MAiD process, sometimes introducing the concept to patients when family members are not present to provide a counter-narrative of hope or support.

Shockingly, many families remain entirely unaware that their loved one has even scheduled a MAiD procedure. Because the law focuses on the patient’s consent, family members are often sidelined, and sensitive medical decisions can proceed without their knowledge.

How to Advocate in the Clinical Environment

I am bringing this to light because we need to understand exactly how to advocate for those we care about when they are admitted to a hospital or mental health clinic. Simply driving someone in crisis to the emergency department is a good first step, but it is not enough. Effective advocacy requires a serious, sustained commitment:

• Be the Communicator: Once at the hospital, assist during triage to ensure the staff understands that you are there to provide communication support. You may need to be the patient's voice, ensuring their history is accurately represented.

• Establish Availability: Make firm arrangements with your own family or significant others to ensure you can be physically present. Advocacy is a time-intensive responsibility; it is not something to take lightly or do on the fly.

• Stay Present: If possible, be present during psychological evaluations or assessments. Ensure the patient understands the questions being asked. Help them synthesize their medical history and recent mental health interactions so they can provide the most accurate information to the clinical team.

• Demand Alternatives: If the topic of "end-of-life options" or MAiD arises, do not hesitate to ask: What other psychiatric, therapeutic, or social supports are being exhausted first? Ask about the alternatives to death.

Every Life Matters

It is our duty to advocate for all those struggling to stay alive. We all have a role to play in preserving the sanctity of human life. I will share more detailed strategies and legal navigation tips in my upcoming book, Eyes Above the Water.

• You are irreplaceable.

• You are unrepeatable.

• You are highly valued.

• You are NOT a burden.

Keep looking up.

Protect Your Home: Eyes Above the Water

To fully understand the ideological pipelines and institutional pressures designed to normalize early exits across Canada, you must arm your household with perspective. My book, Eyes Above the Water, exposes the realities of our modern medical and mental health crisis, providing a raw, faith-filled framework to defend human dignity and protect your family.

For a limited time, you can secure the Eyes Above the Water eBook or Audiobook for $13.60 (regularly $17.00).

• Promo Code: SAVE20

Establish Your Digital Shield Instantly

To join our frontline community and receive active updates and defensive resources, email me directly at contact@billvassilopoulos.com to subscribe to the 3RT Newsletter.

The moment you join, your Free Medical Directive Card and Health Declaration Form will be emailed directly to your inbox for immediate download. This allows you to print the document instantly, establishing a legally binding, ironclad boundary that explicitly forbids unauthorized terminal or MAiD interventions the moment you or your family members enter any hospital or medical center.

Additionally, you can visit my homepage right now and click on the Free DNE Kit link to access the Delta Hospice Society's Do Not Euthanize Defence Kit, featuring a specialized advance directive and a uniquely registered wallet card.

Warmly, your friend,

Bill Vassilopoulos

Author, Eyes Above the Water

©2026 Bill Vassilopoulos. All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer: The contents of this website and book are for educational and advocacy purposes and do not replace professional medical advice.