Sharon...very sorry for your experience, I can imagine how troubling it was and is. It seems to me that dying alone,however, is not the real problem. The problem is living lonely. I live alone, and for myself I would far rather die alone, in my home, whether in the bathroom or in bed or favorite chair, surrounded by familiar things. Far more difficult, for me, would be to die in a hospital or convalescent care facility, surrounded by others.

I have 3 dogs and I DO worry about them, so have a network of friends one of which I contact every day by email...just a few words. I am in California, she is in London, but if she doesn't get an answer to a prompt letter within 24 hours, she has numbers of friends and neighbors of mine, people to call who have agreed to take the dogs, etc.

Bruce's life seems lonely looked at from the outside, but perhaps he was living exactly as he wished. If not, that was his choice as well. Thanks for being the kind of person that cares so much. And for sharing your story....