Introduction: The Role of Educators in Palliative Care

Life and Death Matters is proud to celebrate Kath and Ted Murray, who were awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their outstanding contributions to palliative care education in Canada.

This prestigious honour recognizes their decades of work in developing and delivering high-quality, competency based palliative care curriculum, for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) and for Nurses, as well support materials for educators.

From foundational textbooks to innovative e-learning programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives, their work has made an undeniable impact in palliative care. Their passion for education and commitment to advancing person-centered, culturally responsive, and evidence-based palliative care has set a formidable bar in healthcare training.

A Recognition of Lifelong Commitment

The King Charles III Coronation Medal is a commemorative honour recognizing Canadians who have demonstrated exceptional service to their communities. The recognition of Kath and Ted Murray highlights their profound influence. The medal was presented in a ceremony in Vancouver on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Kath Murray – Co-Founder, Life and Death Matters

“Ted and I are incredibly honoured to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Our mission has always been to improve care of the dying person and their family, by educating PSWs and Nurses to provide compassionate, competent, palliative care. This recognition affirms the importance of our work from the perspective of the colleges who use our materials. We are grateful to the educators who teach, and who strive to support the growth of PSWs/Nurses…. And the incredible palliative care community who continue to inspire and push this field forward.”

Words from the Palliative Care Community

Terry Downing – Hospice Palliative Care Nurse, Educator & Mentor

“Kath and Ted’s contributions to palliative care education have been nothing short of transformative. Their resources have equipped thousands of healthcare professionals with the tools to provide meaningful and compassionate palliative and end-of-life care. This recognition is a testament to their unwavering dedication, and I can think of no two people more deserving of this honour.”