Early Exits
Early Exits explores the central yet often unexamined dimensions of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)—sometimes referred to internationally as euthanasia or assisted dying. It considers why requests for MAiD so often arise not from unmanaged physical pain, but from existential distress: the loss of meaning, identity, and belonging that can accompany serious illness.
Drawing on patient stories and interdisciplinary insight gained from decades of experience in oncology and palliative care, Early Exits examines the psychological, cultural, ethical, and spiritual forces shaping contemporary approaches to death and dying, and invites reflection on whether medicine is being asked to resolve forms of suffering it was never designed to treat.
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Early Exits challenges our modern desire to control death, inviting us instead to engage the end of life as a profound threshold—one in which identity begins to loosen and deeper truths can emerge. Through moving patient stories, the book explores the existential, cultural, ethical, and spiritual forces behind the rising demand for Medical Assistance in Dying. It examines the often-unaddressed psychospiritual dynamics of dying, including how the deconstruction of ego-identity can be a functional part of human transformation. When suffering is met with presence and compassion, the book suggests, it need not be meaningless—it can become a gateway to grace.
Written for clinicians, caregivers, chaplains, policy thinkers, and anyone seeking to support others at the end of life with wisdom, courage, and clarity—and for those who wish to meet their own mortality with curiosity, reverence, and love.
Reviews
More than a book. An encounter with a compassionate, informed author writing what he has lived. What Maginley accomplishes is rare: he deciphers the felt meaning of hundreds who have considered medical assistance in dying, capturing their inner lives with stunning phenomenological insight. His ability to articulate the cultural assumptions behind our fixation on autonomy, control, and ego—what he rightly calls “an intoxicant”—is nothing short of genius.
- John Thompson, PhD, Professor (ret.) Sociology, University of Saskatchewan
This book arrives at a crucial moment as MAiD is increasingly adopted. It offers a thoughtful pause and a chance to reflect on end-of-life decisions, serving as a valuable resource for patients, physician advisors, and policymakers... For all of us reflecting on our shared mortality, this book presents a rich and hopeful perspective on ancient and modern approaches to this often-avoided subject.
- Drew Bethune, MD Retired thoracic surgeon, Former Senior Medical Director Nova Scotia Cancer Program
An honest and thought-provoking review of MAiD in Canada, urging readers to consider our approach to living, dying, suffering, and reality itself. This is an immensely significant work that contributes to our ongoing societal dialogue on the dying process. I highly recommend this book to anyone who recognizes the importance of embracing life fully, including its inevitable end.
- Kristine Lund, PhD, RP Professor, Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy and Clinical Director, Delton Glebe Counselling Centre
The Best Indie Book Award® (BIBA®) is an international literary competition recognizing excellence in independent publishing, celebrating works that demonstrate exceptional writing, originality, and meaningful contribution to their field. Read their assessment of Early Exits here.