Jean's Way

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JW med wikipedia

Jean's Way is a book written by Derek Humphry, a British-American journalist and author. The book was first published in 1978 and is a personal account of the assisted suicide of Humphry's first wife, Jean Humphry, who was suffering from terminal breast cancer. The book is considered a significant work in the right-to-die movement and has influenced discussions on euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Background

Derek Humphry was born in 1930 in Bath, Somerset, England. He worked as a journalist for various newspapers, including The Sunday Times and The Los Angeles Times. In 1974, his wife, Jean, was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer. Faced with her deteriorating condition and severe pain, Jean expressed her desire to end her life on her own terms. Derek Humphry assisted her in this process, which he later detailed in Jean's Way.

Content

Jean's Way provides a detailed narrative of Jean Humphry's illness, her decision to end her life, and the ethical and emotional challenges faced by both Jean and Derek. The book includes personal reflections, medical details, and discussions on the moral implications of assisted suicide. It also addresses the legal aspects of euthanasia and the lack of options available to terminally ill patients at the time.

Impact

The publication of Jean's Way brought significant attention to the right-to-die movement. It sparked debates on euthanasia and assisted suicide and contributed to the formation of organizations advocating for the legalization of these practices. Derek Humphry went on to found the Hemlock Society, an organization dedicated to providing information and support for those considering end-of-life options.

Legacy

Jean's Way remains an influential work in the discussions surrounding end-of-life care, euthanasia, and assisted suicide. It has been referenced in numerous academic and medical discussions and continues to be a poignant account of one family's experience with terminal illness and the right to die with dignity.

See also

• Derek Humphry
• Right-to-die movement
• Euthanasia
• Assisted suicide
• Hemlock Society

External links

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