There comes a time when life ends for all of us. Modern medicine offers many complex and wonderful treatments but cannot avert death. Modern medicine can however alter the way we die, both for good and for less than good. What does Judaism offer us when it comes to the end of life, and what do new laws relating to how we might die in Canada say to those of us who wish to abide by our Jewish heritage?

Michael Gordon, MD, MSc, FRCPC, born in Brooklyn New York, Studied at Brooklyn College in New York and the University of St. Andrews Medical School in Scotland. His training took him to Aberdeen, Boston, Montreal, Israel and Toronto. Michael is currently Medical Program Director of Palliative Care and Co-Director of Medical Ethics, and previously VP Medicine and Head of Geriatrics, at Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System. Michael is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto.