The concept of the end of life is a period that has evolved over time, with a longer duration due to advancements in health care. The end of life stage is likened to other life course stages, with specific tasks and preparations needed for a smooth transition.
Final Exit Network, a nonprofit, offers end-of-life resources including articles on Exit Guide Services, Advance Directives, personal stories, and Healthcare Representatives, emphasizing the significance of choosing a suitable healthcare representative aligned with one’s wishes for medical decision-making. Membership offers access to forums and events.
This week we wanted to simply honor Derek Humphry, co-founder of Final Exit Network. There is no better way to do that than share a tribute written by Faye Girsh, close friend of Derek’s and also a co-founder of Final Exit Network.
What challenges do LGBTQ elders face in finding a trusted individual to discuss their preferences for end-of-life care?
“Your choice of surrogate may be more important than your living will.”
Pain management is a cornerstone of compassionate end-of-life care. Prioritizing comfort and proactively addressing pain allows hospice patients to find dignity and peace in their final days.
“Even a person who is very, very ill or who has a psychiatric illness or Down syndrome can say ‘Don’t do this to me.'”
“Knowing they had a backup if things took an unexpected turn offered these patients great relief. That didn’t mean they saw life as expendable.”
“If no one is encouraging those opposed to hastening their death, I don’t understand why there is so much antagonism from the medical, religious, and legal communities?” — Jim Van Buskirk
