Diane Rehm discusses right-to-die movement - St. Paul's, Sept. 30

On Sunday, September 30 at 10 a.m., St. Paul's Episcopal Church (228 S. Pitt St.) welcomes nationally-syndicated talk show host and Peabody-award winner Diane Rehm to discuss "When My Time Comes," a documentary examining the right-to-die movement. She will take us on her journey towards becoming an activist for medical aid in dying after the death of her beloved husband of 54 years, John Rehm.

Her late husband’s suffering from Parkinsons’ disease brought him to the point where his quality of life had declined, his prognosis was dim, and he asked to die. As medical aid in dying was not a legal option where he lived, John Rehm chose the only alternative he saw: refusing food and water. It took ten long days for her husband to die, thus beginning Diane Rehm’s journey to make sure others would not suffer as he did at the end of their lives.

The film interweaves the Rehms’ experience with those of other patients and families across the U.S., as well as the views of experts, representing a wide range of perspectives on the issue of medical aid in dying. And it is an issue that is gaining public support and attention. Six states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical aid in dying, and legislation is proposed in 25 more states. A recent Gallup poll found that 70 percent of people think a doctor should be able to help a patient end their life, if that is what the patient wants.

Joe Fab, whose Emmy-nominated documentary, “Paper Clips” also took on a sensitive subject—the Holocaust—uses his strong narrative and in-depth interviewing skills to tell this important and timely story. Diane Rehm is an ideal central figure—a trusted, credible and intelligent guide to take viewers through the complex issues that come with end-of-life decisionmaking. Learn more about the inspiration for the film here.

About St. Paul's Episcopal Church
St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, is a parish of over 3,000 people, blessed with a beautiful house of worship and a powerful sense of our calling to "shine as a light in the world to the glory of God." For over 200 years, St. Paul's has served the Alexandria community through our services, education, outreach, and Christian fellowship. From our historic roots in Old Town Alexandria to our commitment to moving beyond the familiar and embracing new missions, we worship in the midst of history—but are not its captive. We rejoice in all those who come to St. Paul's for prayer, spiritual growth, and service, whether as visitors, friends, or members.