Nancy Uden bravely advocated for the right to medical aid in dying in Minnesota, speaking at Capitol committees and engaging in interviews and press conferences. She used a medical device with electrodes attached to her scalp in hopes of prolonging her life. Uden desired the option of a pill to peacefully end her life before her cancer caused unbearable suffering.

Nancy Uden dies at 73

Nancy Uden has been fighting cancer with surgery, radiation treatment, and aggressive chemotherapy. Despite the treatments, her prognosis is grim with only two months left. She has made a promise to continue treatment until there is no hope left and her death becomes inevitable.

She was born named Nancy Anne Ek experienced several significant life events including marrying a ranch hand in South Dakota and opening an A&W Restaurant. She has three children through two marriages. She eventually settled in Minnetonka where she found her soulmate in 1987. She was graduate from Metro State University while balancing a full-time job and raising her kids. Her determination led to a successful career in human resources.

Her role in The Minnesota End-of-Life Options Act


After being diagnosed with cancer, Uden decided to use her remaining time to fight for the passing of the Minnesota End-of-Life Options Act. This act would give terminally ill adults the choice to end their suffering by obtaining medication to self-ingest if they have six months or less to live. Uden's hope was to give other Minnesotans the option to have control over their own end-of-life decisions.

Nancy Uden

Uden was the first to share her story before a House committee in January, explaining the urgency of passing legislation for end-of-life options. Despite her emotional plea and the support of others at the hearing, the legislation did not pass in time for Uden. Tragically, she passed away last Saturday after experiencing seizures.