Okay, Gabriel, you know I have to tell you, so you don't have to drink this, you have

a right not to. You're aware that's going to end your life. Once you do drink it, there's

nothing we can't go.

On July 16th, Gabriella Walsh carried out a decision months in the making for her, a process

involving her loved ones and medical providers.

Okay. Do you have the lytocaine too, Jack?

Lidicane's ready right there.

So once you start drinking after you're done, just relax, lay down.

She drank down a fatal dose of medication prescribed under California's so-called death with dignity law.

It allows some terminally ill patients to request drugs to end their lives.

I'm glad that I learned of my illness early enough, aware enough, and that there is a law, and I was able to do all the steps so that I can take care of it.

And that brings me peace.

I'm Gustavo Ariano. You're listening to The Times, Daily News from the LA Times.

It's Monday, August 1, 2022.

Today, the life and death of Gabriela Walsh.

California is just one of 10 states, along with D.C. that has a law that allows medical aid and dying. In California, some of the main requirements are residents have to be at least 18 years

old and have an illness where life expectancy is six months or less.

Prescribing medication that can hasten someone's death has long been controversial, even illegal.

It's often framed by opponents as assisted suicide and has been challenged in court for reasons like violating a doctor's religious belief.

It's all very complicated, especially for someone living with a terminal illness.

That's why LA Times photojournalist, Donia Maxwell, and features reporter Marisa Gerber, spent times with Gabriela as she decided how she

wanted to deal with this most personal choices.

...