Above: Ben retrofitted his walker with a shelf so he can better carry things around the house.
I was curious about the process Ben and Ann went through in making their choice of refusing additional medical support to prolong life and to stay at home during Ben’s final days.
Here’s what Ben had to say:
“At age 87, many joyful things in my life were coming to a close due to my chronic kidney disease. I loved to fly and teach others to fly. My diminishing sight kept me on the ground. Then I lost my ability to drive, which came with a loss of considerable freedom. Reading and writing were quickly becoming real challenges.
“Ann and I talked all the time about our choices. I didn’t want her to have to drive me to dialysis three times a week just to prolong a wonderful life that was quickly closing down. We have lived for 39 years in a huge house on the side of a mountain. We call it home. Our kids and grandkids do too. This is where I lived, and this is where I choose to die.
“My kidney doctor and friends tried to persuade me to ‘put up a good fight.’ I believe in the quality of life. I believe in being kind to those I love. I am a man of faith. It’s time for me to view heaven. Ann will catch up with me later.”