Acceptance of death and reclaiming traditional wisdom
Throughout history, death of a loved one has been a family event, not a medical one. It still is in many countries, and could be again in the US. (Continue reading ...)
Can suicide by older adults who are not terminally ill be a rational choice?
Derek Humphry, co-founder of The Hemlock Society and Final Exit Network, reflects on the trend of using "completed life" as a reason for self-deliverance among the elderly. (Continue reading ...)
Death Cafe Oakland
Bill Palmer shares some reflections and insights as founder of Death Cafe Oakland in California. (Continue reading ...)
The Hidden Gifts of Fear and Anger
Has anyone told you to not be afraid or angry when making end-of-life decisions? They were wrong. (Continue reading ...)
In Response: Medical Aid in Dying is a Show of Compassion
Responding to an article in the Duluth (Minnesota) News Tribune, Rev. Edward Holland and Rev. Harlan Limpert of Interfaith Clergy for End-of-Life Options voice their support for Medical Aid in Dying. (Continue reading ...)
The Right to Die — Who Decides?
Many advocates of the right to die want universal health care, noting that physician-aided death is legal in Canada. What might that mean for FEN? (Continue reading ...)
“Why I hope to die at 75”
Ezekiel J. Emanuel, distinguished oncologist and bioethicist, a vice provost at the University of Pennsylvania, chair of the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, an author and editor in the health care field, wants to die at age 75. Why would he make such a decision in what many would see as the prime of his life? (Continue reading ...)
Deciding when suicide is a rational choice
How the Final Exit Network works to make hastening one's own death a rational endeavor–a review of the process. (Continue reading ...)
Alternate Endings
A review of the new HBO documentary "Alternate Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America," 67 minutes in length, which began airing on August 14. (Continue reading ...)
Disability and the right to live and die on our own terms
Lamar Hankins discusses how the disabled are devalued and prevented from having the same rights non-disabled people have. What a person considers a fulfilling life should be decided by each person, not by the opinion of any other person, including by someone who is disabled. (Continue reading ...)