The saying that ‘extreme cases make bad law’ is perhaps never so true as in the arguments being advanced in New Zealand to justify assisted dying. Mercy’s response in this complex and often emotive debate is to stand with those who are facing life-threatening illness and to offer the best possible palliative care, easing pain and enabling people to live their lives to the fullest. The care of the sick and dying has been a hallmark of Mercy from its beginnings.