Powerful piece, Charles. A few years ago, I pubished a journal written during the Civil War, from 1856 to 1890. I was astounded at how suddenly and quickly people died in those days, without benefit of modern medical interventions. A diagnosis of cancer, or heart trouble, or even strep throat, and a few days later they were gone. I guess all the modern medical interventions are a double-edged sword. They are a blessing when they cure us or give us more quality time, and a curse when they lead us on a long course of suffering and deteroration.