ALS and Medical Assistance in Dying

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is an important and complex topic for many people living with ALS and their families. As ALS progresses, individuals may face difficult decisions about their care, quality of life, and end-of-life wishes. Yet there is limited research exploring the experiences of people living with ALS who consider or pursue MAiD, and how healthcare providers can best support them throughout this process.

Through this Clinical Research Fellowship, Dr. Laurence Rouleau will investigate the intersection of ALS care and MAiD, helping to improve understanding of the needs and perspectives of people affected by the disease. Her work aims to generate evidence that can inform clinical practice, guide healthcare professionals, and support more person-centered care for individuals and families navigating these complex decisions.

By strengthening knowledge in this emerging area of ALS care, this research has the potential to improve support for people living with ALS, inform best practices, and help ensure care remains aligned with the values and wishes of those affected by the disease.

Before pursuing medicine, Dr. Rouleau worked as an occupational therapist, providing her with a deep understanding of patient-centred care and the lived experiences of people with neurological conditions. Through this fellowship, she will continue to develop expertise in ALS clinical care and research under the mentorship of Dr. Christen Shoesmith, with the goal of improving access to specialized ALS care and clinical trials for people affected by ALS in underserved communities.

Since 2007, Clinical Research Fellowships have been a key part of our commitment to building the next generation of clinician-scientists in Canada. These fellowships strengthen the Canadian ALS Research Network (CALS) by supporting early-career researchers who bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical care.