Compassion in Dying: Stories of Dignity and Choice

By Barbara Coombs Lee

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 die--whether or not they opt to use the prescribed meds to end their lives--and 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 Oregons unique Death with Dignity law.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 093916549X
• ISBN13: 9780939165490
• Release Date: October 2003
• Publisher: NewSage Press
• Length: 142 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.3" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

Facing death with help

Nurse-clinician and attorney, author Barbara Coombs Lee presents case histories of terminally ill patients, in an unblinking, sympathetic and uplifting way. She also tells the story of Oregon's remarkable law, first in the U.S. to permit physician aid-in-dying. The book provides a breath of air in a society stifled with violent media overload and morbid curiosity about death, but little support in handling the actuality. It should reassure Americans that taking control of life's ending is not only possible and practical, but life-enhancing for the individual concerned, the family, and the community. John Ashcroft doesn't get it, but this approach actually prevents impulsive, desperation suicide and prolongs meangingful life for many, because they have compassionate medical support.

Marvelous, beautiful, thoughtful and sensitive

This is a marvelous book, beautifully written, thoughtful and sensitive. The various stories by and about people helped by Compassion are wonderfully told and very moving. The introductory chapter, "A Death of One's Own" is one of the best statements I've ever read on this subject. The book is a very valuable contribution to the literature and to the public debate on end of life choices.