The big business of death
As the saying goes, there are two things we can’t avoid: death and taxes. Another less-known and also difficult-to-avoid situation is the cost of dying. (Continue reading ...)
Pope Francis’ death right after Easter sounds miraculous, but patients and caregivers often work together to delay dying
"Meaning matters just as much as medicine at the end of life." -- Dr. Michelle Riba (Continue reading ...)
When you can’t be present for a last goodbye
"My heart became much lighter as I imagined her standing next to me, watching the blossoms drift slowly downstream." -- Karen Wyatt (Continue reading ...)
Terminally ill Florida woman dies on her own terms. These bills could let others do the same.
“Everyone is just one bad death away from supporting laws like medical aid in dying.” -- Tony Ray (Continue reading ...)
Your life, your death: sharing your final wishes with your loved ones
The allure of quietly fading away, slipping silently into the night, holds a certain appeal. To avoid the fanfare, the potential for misunderstanding, the emotional burden on loved ones, seems like a peaceful resolution. However, modern society rarely affords us that luxury. (Continue reading ...)
Does palliative sedation ease suffering during end-of-life care?
What constitutes unbearable suffering, and at what point is palliative sedation appropriate? Is there a difference between palliative sedation and euthanasia? (Continue reading ...)
End of life wisdom quotes
"Facing one’s own mortality is a universal human experience. I’ve been helped, encouraged and inspired by quotations from others’ reflections and insights. Here are some of my favorites." -- Gary Wederspahn (Continue reading ...)
End-of-life choice and religious teachings (part two)
Part Two -- While most religious bodies are generally opposed to most end-of-life options, some offer what may be described as an “escape clause” which can be interpreted as, “we are opposed; however …” (Continue reading ...)
End-of-life choice and religious teachings (part one)
While most religious bodies are generally opposed to most end-of-life options, some offer what may be described as an “escape clause” which can be interpreted as, “we are opposed; however …” (Continue reading ...)
Unique — but why?
"Many authors have described bereavement as a transition, a transformation, an evolution. It may not seem so when emotions are most raw." -- Chris Haws (Continue reading ...)