Synopses & Reviews
Since 1993 the nonprofit organization Compassion in Dying Federation has been advocating for a social revolution that seeks more humane and caring options for dying individuals---including end-of-life choice. From its inception, this group has worked to support and counsel individuals on how to achieve a peaceful and humane death. Many amazing stories have unfolded from individuals who have turned to Compassion in Dying, and specifically, those seeking end-of-life choice with Oregons Death with Dignity Act.
These stories are from individuals who sought to use the Death with Dignity Act. Most individuals have felt empowered by choice and control in how they diewhether or not they opt to use the prescribed meds to end their livesand often experience renewed hope. Publication of this book is in conjunction with Compassion in Dying Federations 10th anniversary. NewSage Press also published former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts book, Death Without Denial, Grief Without Apology, which includes some information on Oregon's unique Death with Dignity law.
Synopsis
Whether people have a right to control their own death has become a topic of increasing interest to everyone involved governments that try to impose their will on individuals, advocates on both sides of the question, and those most directly affected, the terminally ill. This book, inspired by the Compassion in Dying Federation, looks at the issue personally, from the standpoint of the dying and those directly involved in the process. Editor Barbara Coombs Lee highlights stories of individuals and their graceful release into death that can happen when people are given a choice. But there are also powerful accounts by family members, friends, and religious advisers who respected and supported that choice including those who opted for physician-assisted death. This publication coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Compassion in Dying Federation.
Table of Contents
Margaret "Peggy" Haas Sutherland -- Penny Schleuter -- Michaele Wilk Houston, compassion volunteer -- Jim Romney -- Vignettes for living and dying -- Spiritual perspectives for aid-in-dying -- Richard Holmes -- Roger Watanabe -- Kate Cheney -- Jake Harris.