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Danielle’s beloved mother, Carolyn Colley, has lived with multiple sclerosis for 35 years. Now facing imminent respiratory and renal failure, she's been granted voluntary assisted death in New South Wales and she's happier than she's been in years.

Not because she’s given up, but because after decades of being in surrender to her body making the decisions, she finally gets to make a choice for herself.

In this deeply personal conversation, Danielle sits down with her mother to explore why death isn't the enemy we think it is, how choosing your exit can bring comfort and relief, and what it means to live fully even in your final months. This isn't a conversation about dying, it's about living with courage, choosing on your own terms, and the radical act of kindness.

It is a conversation about dignity, but not the kind you're thinking of. About the loss of it, catheter malfunctions, needing help to pull your pants up, the deeply unsexy reality of a body that's shutting down. And then we discuss finding it again, on your own terms.

If you've ever wondered what it actually means to die well, to live fully even when you're dying, or how to let go of someone you love who's asking you to be happy for them, this one's for you.

Content Warning: There are discussions about death, voluntary assisted dying, degenerative illness, loss of bodily autonomy, and grief. Also: surprising amounts of bathroom humor and karaoke references.

00:00 Introduction: Living with Multiple Sclerosis

00:25 Mom's New Lease on Life

00:58 Podcast Begins: Welcoming Carolyn

02:03 The Decision for Voluntary Assisted Death

02:40 Excitement About the Unknown

04:08 Challenges of a Degenerative Disease

05:45 Legal and Emotional Aspects of VAD

07:18 Living with Humor and Support

14:00 Spiritual Exploration and Acceptance

27:52 Spiritual Mentorship and Reunions

31:54 Reflections on Life and Death

33:15 Living Fully Despite Exhaustion

34:22 Legacy and Final Wishes

42:36 Embracing Kindness and Love

53:41 Concluding Thoughts on Life and Death

Connect with Danielle:

See her website - https://daniellecolley.com.au/

But the Chocolate Bar Life book - https://www.thechocolatebarlife.com.au/buy-book

Find her on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamdaniellecolley/

Connect on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/IAmDanielleColley/?_rdc=1&_rdr#

Watch on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@iamdaniellecolley

Check out her substack - https://substack.com/@iamdaniellecolley?utm_source=user-menu