Dignity in Dying Statement on Nat Dye MBE
Nat was an indefatigable, courageous and inspirational campaigner whose warmth, generosity and determination left a lasting mark on this movement. Living with terminal cancer, Nat fought not only for himself but for everyone facing the end of life without choice.
A statement from Nat’s family (Jonathan, Rebecca, Jessica and Emma) reads:
“We, Nathaniel’s family, were relieved in the end that his deterioration was rapid and he received excellent palliative care. Assisted dying was thankfully not needed in his case, however we were fully aware of his wishes and would have completely supported him had it been and believe, like Nathaniel, that the option should be there for terminally ill people who are not so lucky. We are glad that he didn’t need an assisted death but he, and we, would have found so much comfort and reassurance had he known it was available in case of need. We are so incredibly proud our little brother and everything he achieved, despite every obstacle put in his way.”
Nat was, above all, about life and living. For Nat that extended right to the very end, believing passionately in the right to go out as him. Chronicling his experience on his blog, Bowel Cancer Bucket List, Nat said: “I may be dying but whilst I can, I choose to live and show the world through words and deeds that it’s possible to live a full life post diagnosis.”
Awarded an MBE in the 2025 New Year’s Honours for raising cancer awareness and campaigning for NHS reform, Nat refused to be defined by illness. He worked closely with the Labour Party, launching their 2024 manifesto alongside his MP, Wes Streeting.
Nat was also a transformative force in education and music. He built a one-person Inner London state primary school music department into an exceptional programme recognised as the Outstanding Music Department at the 2023 Music and Drama Education Awards.
Even as Nat’s illness progressed, he continued to campaign relentlessly for the Assisted Dying Bill, regularly reminding journalists, MPs and Peers: “my very death depends on it”. The legal reform Nat championed so passionately still has a journey ahead, but by challenging what he believed was a cruel status quo and speaking truth to power, he has helped bring us closer than ever before to a safe, compassionate assisted dying law.
We offer our deepest condolences to Nat’s loved ones and remain determined to honour his legacy; standing shoulder to shoulder with terminally ill people and bereaved families to achieve the change he wanted to see.
*For more information, please email Tom Steen, Media & Campaigns Officer, tom.steen@dignityindying.org.uk or call 07356135578*