Educational Media Reviews Online

This film examines the issue of death and dying in Western society. At a time when medical technology is able to extend our lives, and when death has become a sterile, lonely, and often frightening experience for both the dying and the survivors, the concept of hospice attempts to provide a more meaningful way to die, surrounded by loved ones in one's home. This option is especially available to those who have terminal diseases, with a certain time period specified by medical experts, and one that is supported financially by some insurance companies. This film examines the lives of five patients who have been diagnosed with terminal diseases, their experience with hospice, and their loved one's experiences and thoughts.

Joe Torman has terminal liver disease, and has lived a long, active and independent life, and the film shows how his family gathers around him as he dies. Alvorene Warren has multiple sclerosis, and has slowly lost the use of her body, but her mind is active and the film shows how hospice helps her to get the attention and stimulation that she needs. Cory Jones has non-Hodgkins lymphoma, is an artist that cherishes her freedom and love of nature, and shows how she is preparing herself to die in her home around her plants and family. Rick Rydalch has an inoperable brain tumor, is fairly functional, and yet his family must come to grips with his death, even though he cannot accept it. The film especially shows how his wife is burning out and not taking care of herself in order to meet his needs, and how hospice tries to work in this situation. Finally, Karen Cook has ovarian cancer, 2 young boys and husband, and has beat death for well over two years. She is living on borrowed time, and yet she is prepared to die and takes each day as a gift.

This is a strong film for a society that avoids talking about, thinking about, or dealing with death. It is a reminder that death is inevitable for all of us, but that there are options available that are different and more holistic than the hospital. This film is a good discussion starter, and is well documented and filmed.