Dying With Dignity

Ray Perman has been diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. Having legally obtained the medication required, Ray is now deciding if he’ll end his own life, or let his cancer overcome him. It's an extremely difficult position to be in, but Ray is determined to go on as long as he can, and contribute as much as he can in the time he has left. And part of his goal is to make it to his daughter's wedding. Ray is a former pilot, and recalls the ancient laws of the sea which dictate that the captain will do everything within his power to not lose control of his vessel.

The death with dignity conversation is growing in the United States and is an important part of the dialogue around end-of-life care, health, and choices. Compassion and Choices is a national organization that advocates for all end-of-life care options to relieve suffering, including medical aid in dying. They connected us with Ray. Here's some of what Ray Perman said to us in email, prior to our conversation: "Let me be the explorer that carries the torch into the darkest depth of the cave . . . Let me bring in the light and report back what I am seeing. This can be my single greatest gift to my fellow man. Time is limited. Let's have at it."