^#smrgSAHAF But What If She Wants to Die ( A Husband's Diary ) - 1997

In 1995, the case of Myrna Delury created a media blitz and much discussion and debate. George Delury says he wrote this book to vindicate Myrna, his wife, and protect others in similar situations against "the sentimental, the self-righteous, and the fearful." Myrna endured multiple sclerosis for years before her husband "murdered" her. Early in their marriage, she asked him if he would help her die when she felt life was no longer worth living, and eventually he did, although her case did not meet the major requirements for assisted suicide. George was arrested, but the district attorney plea-bargained, and George served four months of a six-month sentence. Much of his account concentrates on his and Myrna's changing relationship as she lost one function after another. He portrays her as thoroughly human throughout their final journey, and he notes highlights such as a wonderful home aide and bad patches such as misdirected rehab efforts and unthinking or cruel family members. He gives us much to ponder.