Click here to read full review in March/April 2018 issue.

“How do you want to die?” asks Samuel Harrington MD. “Do you want to suffer? Do you want your last conscious sensations to be the chest compressions of an emergency medical technician (EMT) separating your sternum from your ribs?” … Using his father’s story as an example of a good death, Harrington outlines steps that can be taken to avoid a medicalized death, characterized by what he calls “the state of a semi-conscious patient in an ICU or nursing home who is subjected to medical treatments beyond their direct wishes or beyond common sense.” 

At Peace takes a realistic look at the difficulties one is likely to encounter after age 75, presenting an overview of diseases commonly responsible for death in one’s later years. For those who have come to the conclusion that an earlier death in relative comfort is preferable to a protracted one in a medical facility, Harrington discusses how to have “The Conversation” with a loved one about end-of-life wishes; explores the ethics and legalities of the voluntary refusal of fluid and food; offers advice on the preparation of advance directives; and encourages readers to create a vision of their own death.

“The last travel guide boomers will ever need. And believe me, they need it.”

“As a physician and a boomer, I highly recommend this book to both physicians and boomers, as well as to anyone with aging parents or an aging body. Dr. Harrington has written a thoughtful, heartfelt, and important book that offers a new way for us to understand and face the inevitable with grace and comfort.”

“I found this book to be a clear and calm explanation of the end of life process. The author, a physician, is refreshingly practical, sensitive, and humble. I have read the book once with interest, and will keep it as a reference.”

“This book opens a window onto important issues that we tend to avoid until it is too late. Incredibly well written and insightful.”

“The amount of medical science in At Peace is just right for the lay reader – informative, but not overwhelming. Based on reading this book, I have already decided which medical tests I no longer need to have – or to pay for – at my age.”

“Practical and important information prescribed with heart. Helpful as you assist aging parents – even better for yourself as you face the inevitable aging process.”