Love story: Supporting your soulmate through voluntary assisted dying

Hilda Quiroga met Steve Mayer in 2007 in Melbourne, describing the encounter as love at first sight. Their 18-year partnership was marked by shared passions, including a love for travel, which they pursued extensively after Mayer, a barista and musician, obtained his passport. The couple embarked on numerous adventures, visiting places like Machu Picchu, the Amazon, Samoa, Guatemala, and Peru.

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I have just met a man that is going to change my life.

Their life together took a difficult turn in June 2023 when Mayer received a CT scan revealing a lung mass. Further tests confirmed the cancer had metastasized to his brain and other parts of his body. Mayer, who had previously shown only fatigue and excessive sweating, was diagnosed with advanced cancer.

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We're going to be travelling together mate, so get ready, get your passport ready.

Quiroga left her job in September to care for Mayer, applying for carer's allowance and disability support. She described the transition from partner to carer, noting that while Mayer typically handled cooking and cleaning, she took over financial and administrative duties. She found strength in herself she didn't know she possessed during his illness, highlighting the profound nature of their bond and the challenges of end-of-life care.

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Steve just made me feel like he saw me.