Death and Wild Dogs
A Journey Through the Politics of Dying in America
Early Endorsements
"A deeply moving account, beautifully told, of one woman's fight for a peaceful death. The raw honesty of this memoir shows why a compassionate option at end of life should be available for all who are terminally ill. Stella's book is a must read."
Diane Rehm, former WAMU/NPR host of nationally syndicated The Diane Rehm Show
"A love story, a political drama and an affirmation of living, this memoir will make you cry and laugh. Mary's courage in searching for medical aid in dying while fatally ill and her wife's journey through grief offer us hope and inspiration. Mary was my first MAID patient. She and Stella changed my life. Their story is emotionally intense and beautiful."
Dr. Katalin Roth, US News and World Report Top Doctor specializing in geriatrics, palliative care and medical ethics.
I continue to work on expanding options for the terminally ill at the end of their lives.
Storytelling
I tell how Mary's honesty in speaking out about facing death changed the law in the District of Columbia. I hope my storytelling can inspire others to seek legislative change and help to foster understanding that a compassionate option does not limit the rights of others. See my recent interview with radio host Diane Rehm.
End of Life Options DC
I seek to further the purpose of DC's Death with Dignity Act as a board member and current president of the non-profit. We provide resources and support for patients, their families, and healthcare providers facing end-of-life decisions to ensure that they have access to the full range of options under DC law.
Advocacy
I advocate for personal autonomy for the terminally ill in deciding how they wish to meet death. I lobby Congress to prevent their repeated efforts to overturn the DC Death with Dignity law. I also support state legislation, speak to healthcare providers and contribute opinion pieces. My Substack "Matters of Life and Death" explores the meaning of living and how we choose to meet our last days.
