Lessons in How – and How Not To Die
This story, about one woman’s experience of both best and worst at life’s end, is being told for the dual messages it brings. (Continue reading ...)
When Truth Meets Compassion: The Permission Conversation That Changes Everything
"In less than 10 minutes, the air in the room felt lighter – not because the situation changed, but because truth, spoken with tenderness, created space for autonomy, comfort, and connection." -- Cathy Yuhas (Continue reading ...)
Airlines’ Policy is to Ignore Your Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)
"I interviewed a retired airline pilot about the issue. He confirmed that the captain and crew have ultimate authority and that CPR use is the protocol that overrides a DNR." -- Althea Halchuck (Continue reading ...)
Go quiet into the night
The article contrasts the end-of-life experiences of Grandma Lilly, who suffers in ICU, with Grandpa Joe, who dies peacefully surrounded by loved ones, highlighting the choices in dying. (Continue reading ...)
Thoughts On A “Good Death”
"I have the privilege to learn and hear interesting perspectives, along with all the questions and comments that our community members have, on the topics of death and dying. Here are a few insights I have gleaned from these discussions." (Continue reading ...)
How Not To Die In The E.R.
"There should be a JLMA form: Just Leave Me Alone, for those of us who concede that we’re actually going to die some day and work to keep our end-times as inexpensive and comfortable as possible." (Continue reading ...)
A Good Death Is More About The Journey Than The Destination
"I was reluctant to force the issue. What remained unsaid came with its own set of consequences." (Continue reading ...)
Dying Badly In The ICU
"The sentence that sent my blood pressure skyward was this: 'Even if my patients are beyond pain, there is also a cost to those who are forced to perform emergency efforts that is just that: a performance.'” (Continue reading ...)
“If I Were A Dog …”
Had she been the family's beloved old Labrador or suffering Boston Terrier, we would have taken her to the vet for a final loving, humane act, a choice unavailable to her family, doctors, or caregivers. (Continue reading ...)
You’re Suing Me BECAUSE I Kept Your Husband Alive?
“They made the end of his life horrible and painful and humiliating,” Elaine Greenberg said. “What’s the sense of having a living will if it’s not honored?” (Continue reading ...)