Charlotte's uncle, who lived in Holland, was dying of cancer at the age of 76. He decided that he did not want any more treatment and that he wanted an assisted death at home. Charlotte and his children were with him when he died. His death was dignified and peaceful.

• Living with dying: Carers

Had two sub-arachnoid haemorrhages in 1993 and then developed hydrocephalus. Had a shunt inserted in 1994, which was "revised" (removed and replaced) in 2000.

Developed symptoms in December 2001, diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in December 2002, treated with chemotherapy to shrink the tumour, followed by surgery in May 2003.

Breast cancer diagnosed in 2001, followed by a mastectomy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy

Diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in 1999. Treated with flixotide and serevent inhalers, and on a nebuliser four times a day.

Diagnosed with end stage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in 1986. Also has early heart failure and severe osteoporosis, and is treated with medication, a nebuliser and oxygen.

Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2002, followed by surgery and chemotherapy.

Diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, which has been treated with pain relief and other symptom control.

Diagnosed with breast cancer in left breast in 1998, followed by lumpectomy, then mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. In 2000 secondary tumours found in other breast, liver, bones and lung, treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment.

Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1983, treated with medication (Madopar)