Colleen, your love for your father and sister is evident in your presence, and in your honest observations. I've attended many deaths; a so-called “good death” is possible for many. But the trauma of exposure to protracted suffering - when the dying one clearly has reached the end of capacity and wants to come to a peaceful end- affects those who love them so deeply. Its not unusual for these beloved family members to suffer post traumatic stress injuries. On one hand, we’re fortunate to have so much to medically offer the desperately, painfully ill. On the other hand, it’s unconscionable to withhold compassionate assistance under circumstances you describe.

I'm so sorry. Thank you for sharing this. It’s necessary to make progress.