Summary In this episode of Inspired Caring, Michele Magner engages in a heartfelt conversation with Erica Baccus about her journey through her husband's Alzheimer's diagnosis and the decision to pursue assisted dying in Switzerland. They explore the complexities of grief, the importance of open conversations about death, and the emotional challenges faced by families navigating these difficult choices. Erica shares her personal experiences, insights on the process of Dignitas, and the significance of making informed decisions about end-of-life care.

Keywords

assisted dying, Alzheimer's, grief, decision-making, Dignitas, end-of-life options, medical assistance in dying, emotional support, family conversations, personal stories

Takeaways

• Erica emphasizes the need for open conversations about death and dying.
• The decision for assisted dying was made with careful consideration and love.
• Grief can manifest in complex ways, especially after a planned death.
• Erica's husband, John, maintained a positive outlook throughout his illness.
• The process of assisted dying in Switzerland involves thorough documentation and evaluations.
• Erica found solace in writing and journaling during her husband's decline.
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in navigating end-of-life decisions.
• The importance of understanding one's options regarding assisted dying is highlighted.
• Erica's experience reflects the need for supportive medical communities.
• Conversations about death should begin long before a diagnosis.

Sound bites

"I wrote a goodbye letter."

"This was a gift."

"This isn't for everyone."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Right to Die

01:22 Personal Experiences with Assisted Dying

04:20 Navigating the Legal Landscape of Assisted Dying

07:27 The Emotional Journey of Decision-Making

10:17 The Process of Dignitas and Its Requirements

13:04 Traveling to Switzerland for Assisted Dying

15:47 The Experience at Dignitas

18:57 Reflections on Life and Death Choices

30:29 The Process of Assisted Dying

34:56 Reflections on Choice and Grief

37:35 Navigating Conversations About Death

43:19 Communicating with Family About End-of-Life Choices

48:02 The Importance of Timing in End-of-Life Decisions

52:04 Self-Care for Caregivers

53:54 Sharing the Journey: The Book Launch

57:23 Navigating Difficult Conversations About Death

01:00:05 The Emotional Toll of Caregiving

01:02:21 Facing Alzheimer's: A Personal Journey

01:05:23 The Importance of Sharing Stories

Buy Erica's Book A PROMISE KEPT: Honoring His Wishes, Embracing Our Love

Visit Erica’s Website

Buy Amy Bloom’s Book In Love

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

The Curious Senior Book Review on Being Mortal

Visit Dignitas' Website

Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster.

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Connect with Michele Magner:

Website: www.InspiredCaring.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138
Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.