A family practice physician explains why she changed her mind about Medical Aid in Dying.
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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.
A woman’s terminal cancer diagnosis leads her to organize farewells with loved ones, ensuring her affairs are in order, resulting in what her family calls a “Good Death.”
The article explores the complexities and contradictions in the concept of a “good death,” questioning the reliance on medication and the preconceived ideals, urging a flexible, adaptive approach to end-of-life care.
In Part 1 of this post, Michele Bograd explores the concept of the “good death,” highlighting the influence of personal beliefs, social privilege, and structural inequalities in shaping end-of-life experiences as an end-of-life doula.
“Many memories are created through heart-based events, so it’s possible that dementia patients may have a repository of memories that reside inside their hearts.”
“Many agencies, home health providers, churches, and physicians are reluctant to recommend services that address end of life issues. It is sad and confusing why anyone would not give their friends, clients, or customers the guidance and comfort that trained professionals can offer.”
“Does the contract allow you to have access to your own doctors? What is the facility’s position on VSED? If you enter hospice, will they commit to providing adequate pain relief? If you live in a state with MAiD, will the facility cooperate?”
“Many of the individuals around the bedside barely know each other, and this becomes an environment of misinformation, mistrust, and hidden agendas about substantial financial and estate issues … as ex-wives and ex-husbands, half siblings who never knew each other, long-time same-sex partners (surprise, who knew?), in-laws, out-laws show up at the bedside.” — Dr. Edward T. Creagan, M.D.
“One of our team nurses shared that her only training on caring for the dying involved a lecture from a funeral home manager.”
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