Death and dying are never easy subjects to broach, but that hasn't discouraged palliative care physicians at Michigan State University (MSU) — they have launched a new Web site to do just that. The site, Completing a Life (commtechlab .msu.edu/sites/completingalife/audioon/welcome.html), takes visitors on a step-by-step tour through the issues and questions that surround death and dying, and it does it in a surprisingly clear and comforting way.
“Completing a Life is all about empowering people to live as fully as they can in life's last stages and in accordance with their own values,” says Dr. Karen Ogle, director of MSU's Palliative Care Program and the site's codeveloper. “Because the product is richly interactive, users can chart their own pathway through the material by choosing the resources that matter to them as individuals.”
The site has 3 main sections. The first illustrates techniques to help the patient and his/her family remain active in the decision-making process as death approaches, while the second provides practical information on easing pain and suffering. The final section discusses the issues surrounding attempts to come to terms with death.
As well, a “Taking Charge” section provides step-by-step information for dealing with medical planning, with segments on emergencies, prolonging life and organ donation. For instance, when should 911 not be called?
The site features high-end graphic materials, musical backgrounds and video commentary. Visitors must use 2 free Web browser plugins, Macromedia Shockwave (www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/) and Quicktime video (www.apple.com/quicktime/download/). A high-speed Internet connection is also recommended.