End of Life Options
A framed collage of family photos of Deb Robertson and her wife, Kate Koubek, hangs from a wall at their home in Lombard, Ill., on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026.
As featured on
Deb Robertson has become a leading advocate for end-of-life options in Illinois. After being diagnosed with a rare cancer, she pushed for a law allowing terminally ill patients to use lethal prescriptions to end their lives. Her efforts paid off when “Deb's law” took effect on Sept. 12, making Illinois the first Midwestern state — and 13th in the U.S. — to legalize medical aid in dying. Despite opposition from religious and disability groups, support for such laws is growing. Advocates argue it offers dignity and choice, while critics worry about potential misuse. The debate continues as more states consider similar legislation.
