Like most commenters, I found this story both tragic and mesmerizing. But while much of the discussion has centered around cancer, I think this is a specific in

Like most commenters, I found this story both tragic and mesmerizing. But while much of the discussion has centered around cancer, I think this is a specific instance of a more general problem. Whether it's heart disease at 50 or Alzheimer's at 90, almost all of us will experience the gradual failure of our bodies and minds. With the exception of those killed by violence or accident, we can look forward to decades of decline, followed by a humiliating, terrifying, and excruciating end. The most debauched psychopath would not dream of subjecting their victims to such an experience. It is no wonder that most of us live as if such a time will never come. But it will. Don't forget that. Just as one plans for retirement, so too should one plan for death. To get an idea of the ailments of old age, I recommend reading Who by Very Slow Decay[1]. The author is a resident physician. http://slatestarcodex.com/2013/07/17/who-by-very-slow-decay/ http://slatestarcodex.com/2013/07/17/who-by-very-slow-decay/