Renowned Canadian Author Robert Munsch Approved for Assisted Dying

Thu Sep 18 2025 00:10:49 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Celebrated children's author Robert Munsch has been granted approval for medically assisted dying in Canada, following his battle with dementia and Parkinson's disease.

Robert Munsch, the beloved Canadian writer, known for books like 'The Paper Bag Princess,' has been approved for medically assisted dying after a diagnosis of dementia and Parkinson's disease. Reflecting on his experience and decision influenced by his brother's ALS battle, Munsch emphasizes the importance of choosing his own moment amidst his health struggles. Canada's law allows individuals with serious medical conditions to pursue this option.

Celebrated children's writer Robert Munsch has been approved for medically assisted dying in Canada.

Munsch, whose 85 published books include The Paper Bag Princess and Love You Forever, was diagnosed with dementia in 2021 and also has Parkinson's disease.

The 80-year-old author told the New York Times Magazine that he had not decided a date for his death, but said he would go when I start having real trouble talking and communicating. Then I'll know.

Canada first legalised euthanasia in 2016 for people with terminal illnesses. In 2021, the law was changed to include those with serious and chronic physical conditions, even in non-life threatening circumstances.

Munsch has sold more than 80 million copies of his books in North America alone and they have been translated into at least 20 languages - including Arabic, Spanish and Anishinaabemowin, an indigenous North American language.

In 1999, Munsch was made a member of the Order of Canada. A decade later, he received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in Toronto.

In the interview, Munsch reflected on his decision ultimately influenced by watching his brother die from Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), and shared that he had wished for a different kind of end for his brother, saying: They kept him alive through all these interventions. I thought, let him die.

According to Canadian law, individuals over 18 must meet strict criteria to qualify for assisted dying. This includes having a serious and incurable illness and making a voluntary request free from external pressure. Two independent healthcare professionals must confirm eligibility.

Soon after the news, Scholastic, Munsch's publisher, issued a heartfelt statement highlighting the enduring impact of his work across generations.

Munsch's daughter, Julie, clarified that the decision to pursue medically assisted dying was made five years ago and emphasized that her father isn't in immediate danger of dying.

Medically assisted dying accounted for 4.7% of deaths in Canada in 2023, with most cases being related to significant medical conditions. Munsch continues to advocate for choosing the right moment for such a significant decision.