Brittany Maynard's Story: A Journey with Terminal Illness

Introduction

• Subject: Brittany Maynard, a 29-year-old terminally ill woman.
• Context: Became a public figure in the right-to-die movement.
• Action: Ended her life on November 1 in Portland, Oregon, due to terminal brain cancer.

Brittany's Decision

• Diagnosis: Stage 4 glioblastoma diagnosed last spring.
• Prognosis: Doctors informed her she had six months to live.
• Choice: Opted to utilize Oregon's Death with Dignity Act for a self-chosen dignified passing.
• Method: Took a prescribed dose of barbiturates.

Public Advocacy

• Campaign: Launched an online video campaign with Compassion & Choices.
• Objective: Advocate for expanding death-with-dignity laws across the U.S.
• Perspective: Viewed opposition to her choice as unjust, differentiating it from suicide.

Personal Reflections

• Process: Gradual decision-making starting from her diagnosis.
• Research: Evaluated potential treatments and their side effects, ultimately deciding against chemotherapy or radiation.
• Rationale: Concern about quality of life and the inevitable progression of her tumor.

Final Months and Activities

• Travel: Visited places like Alaska, British Columbia, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon.
• Health: Experienced progressively worsening symptoms, including severe seizures.
• Support: Received significant public support and aimed to inspire change.

Legacy Intentions

• Legacy: Desired to be remembered as a loving family member and advocate for change in healthcare policy.
• Family Requests: Asked family to continue advocating for death-with-dignity laws.

Personal Wishes

• For Family: Expressed wishes for her loved ones' futures, including her husband’s potential paternal life.
• Emotional Preparations: Left thoughtful gifts for future occasions and maintained her hope for her family's happiness.

Conclusion

• Brittany's Hope: Aims to make a lasting impact on healthcare policy, ensuring end-of-life choices are available to all Americans.