Synopsis
Sisters Jeanne and Eileen Fitzpatrick, one a medical doctor and one an attorney, share stories ranging from heartbreaking to uplifting of deaths and attendant legal battles they have witnessed in their work. Based on insights gained through these experiences, they have envisioned and structured a Compassion Protocol, a better way of dying.
The Compassion Protocol is designed as a means of allowing individuals to maintain control of the circumstances of their last days and choose a natural death. While primarily targeted toward the mentally competent elderly, the terminally ill, and those facing the irreversible deterioration of Alzheimer's Disease, the plan can be arranged for future implementation by anyone at any stage of life. The foundational premise of this protocol is that every person has the right to choose a natural death, by refusing or discontinuing interventive measures which circumvent potential "exit events," such as cardiac arrest, stroke, or infection, opting instead for comfort care only.
Comments
The Compassion Protocol does NOT in any way promote or suggest assisted/enabled suicide; its intent is simply to allow death to occur naturally sooner rather than later, opting out of "heroic measures" which often only prolong existence and multiply expense without restoring any quality of life. The book includes much thoughtful discussion, as well as structured reflection exercises to help readers understand their options and make informed decisions.
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