For Ron and Irene Kemp, the decision to die with medical support was an intensely personal decision. This decision brought to an end their incredible love story—which spanned more than 70 years—with the deep emotional resonance of that 7-decades-plus time. The pair had first met in South Hurstville in the 1950s. They demonstrated their incorrigible loyalty to each other in the brave decision they made to enter their last moments together. With that love and support surrounding them, they chose to create an image that embodied all of their experiences, their bond, and connection.
During the entire process of the assisted dying, four medical professionals were present. They focused on making sure Ron and Irene were comfortable, while still maintaining transparency in their decision-making. Though Irene had been fighting dysphagia for some time, as her illness worsened she was no longer able to eat. It was this kind of deterioration that made her eventually decide that the time had come to let her go.
Ron, just as determined, said he wanted to exit this life with his sweetheart by his side. He was fierce that he didn’t want to live with her. That commitment was beautiful and profound, shown by their willingness to share life together as they slept side-by-side in the hospital on a single bed. Gentle smiles filled their eyes, eye-glows, as they stood close, and despite unconditional love received and given their entire lives, an anxiety lingered.
The couple had skillfully arthritically trotted through three stages of the assisted dying process. Their chief doctor was an expert customizer of drugs, never letting pain defeat the patient or rob them of agency. As they neared the end of their lives, Ron’s state of mind illustrated his character.
“I’ve done everything I wanted to. I am ready to go.” – Nan
Irene was an extremely powerful woman—never letting on, even at 90 years old, that she was in pain. In her own life she outlived all of her siblings, and watched over them in advanced stages. As an observer, she was deeply affected by the painful spectacle of death. This experience must have played a role in her decision as she stared down her own mortality.
Together, Ron and Irene worked to raise their four children in Sydney, before moving to Port Macquarie in the 1960s. They truly lived an Aussie dream, traveling all around Australia in a caravan, including unforgettable stops in Perth and Katherine. Her and Isaac’s adventures made for a colorful palette of experiences, deepening their connection throughout the years.
Their family tree continued to flourish, adding five grandchildren who filled their lives with laughter and light. Alas, still-missing sons-in-law. As their days turned into years, the couple would look back on their beautiful life stroll down memory lane that left a meaningful legacy.
Ron and Irene each wore special shirts that they had picked out for the day of their assisted dying. Ron wore a shirt featuring a cranky cockatoo. Irene decided on a white floral top, similar to what she had at their 70th wedding anniversary party. These dresses became powerful emblems of both their lasting love and combined history.
Ron and Irene loved the thought of writing their next chapter together. They truly enjoyed swapping their comforts and enjoying each other’s company. They didn’t come to that decision easily. It originated from a profound understanding of their situation and a greater urgency to maintain their dignity when they left.