- google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCIQFjAA&url=http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Life-interrupts-an-attempt-to-die-at-home-2188158.php&ei=-Q0OT46UJp
- blog.timesunion.com/healthcare/terminally-ill-cancer-patient-revived-after-suicide-attempt/2874/
- bcove.me/errzlnek
List date(s) this work was published or aired.
Sept. 25, 2011
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
Varian Knisely had a terminal brain tumor and wanted to die on her own terms. She said goodbye to her husband and swallowed some pills with the goal of committing suicide. Hospice workers happened to come by and called 911. Varian was revived. The story explains the complexities around the suicide of terminal patients.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
I FOIA’d the police report that was created when police intervened in Varian’s suicide, but did not get the document until after the story ran. However, police confirmed the incident in an interview. I used the internet to find resources on assisted-death issues and included some of those resources and definitions in a box.
Explain types of human sources used.
The story was largely based on interviews with Varian’s husband, hospice officials, bioethicists, police and a representative of a group that helps dying patients’ commit suicide.
Results:
The hospice agency has said that it will provide additional training to staff on how to deal with patients who want to commit suicide.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Suicide is legal, but every state and agency has a different way of dealing with patients who want to commit suicide before they die naturally. Check out the laws and policies in your area.