“Several years ago, my husband and three children and I were driving through rural Pennsylvania on a family trip and saw a billboard that asked, somewhat ominously: ‘Is Your Hospice Letting You Down?'” — Theresa Brown
Decisions at the end of life reach beyond an individual’s medical condition and involve in-depth consideration of how each person defines quality.
“Some part of us, deep in our hearts, has known this truth. If not, we would not long for a return to it.” — Frank Ostaseski
Terminal lucidity often brings a surprising clarity to patients with severe cognitive decline, allowing them to communicate thoughts and emotions with loved ones in their final moments.
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.
“My heart became much lighter as I imagined her standing next to me, watching the blossoms drift slowly downstream.” — Karen Wyatt
“There at the End: Voices from Final Exit Network: A Celebration of 20 Years” shares powerful testimonies from individuals connected to Final Exit Network (FEN), showcasing the organization’s dedication to supporting mentally competent adults suffering from terminal conditions in their right to choose death.
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.
“Everyone gasped as the comatose patient slowly lifted her hand from the bed and began moving it in time to what I was singing.”
A family practice physician explains why she changed her mind about Medical Aid in Dying.
