I especially appreciate that this young woman allowed her story of how she is working with terminal brain cancer to be published in the widely read People Magazine, that her entire family supports her decisions, even to the point of moving to Oregon where her choice to die consciously could be honored, and that she states clearly the difference between her choice to die before the predicted pain becomes unbearable and what we tend to label, and judge accordingly, “suicide.”
Image: people.com
I just read that article!
Six years ago, I was diagnosed with AML leukemia type 5b.
First things first I demanded to know my chances for survival, as I did not want to go through the treatments of chemo, full body irradiation, and then a transplant, and all the cost carried by the members of my HMO. if I had little chance for survival.
I had about a 50/50, given the fact that I had no underlying disease and had previously been quite fit. So I took the plunge.
I think the factor that truly helped me heal, was complete rest and a letting go of this world. I did not
“fight” the cancer, or see it as an enemy.
If it was my time to go, I was ready. This experience is what woke me up. I decided to live my own life, and dedicated myself to truth, no matter where the road took me. It might sound odd, but it was not a bad experience, even though I had quite a few complications from the treatment, and still have flare-ups from host VS graft.
The nurses were the most kind humans I have ever met in my life.
So, I completely support this movement. I always said that when the boomers get to the end stage of life, we will see a revolution in how we deal with unecessary suffering for the terminally ill.
I had a similar experience where I was told that there was “nothing more I can do for you.” I asked, “Am I going to die?” The doctor shrugged his shoulders sheepishly and walked out of the room. (This was when I was 26 years old, pre-Kubler Ross). . . I date my wake-up to my response to this doctor. Long story, I’m sure I’ve told it on this blog somewhere. And yes, I discovered that when we let go of the fear of death we begin to truly live.
Spectacular, Ann, and thank you very much. I am truly grateful for this beautiful, loving article. I am in 150% agreement. Much love, Mari
I sent this to my two children. Very important to me that they know I align myself with this. Thanks again, Ann!