An End of Life Option

The loving account of a man’s extraordinary battle against cancer and, more importantly, his joy for life. Helder Pereira was such a vibrant, vital figure that many of those who knew him found it difficult to believe that he was so ill for many years. Stricken by both addiction and cancer, Helder used the lessons he learned in fighting the first to keep the second at bay for an extraordinary number of active, happy and inspirational years. In this direct chronicle of her husband’s life, Carol Pereira pulls back the curtain a bit, revealing the effort required to choose happiness and the difficult choice to take the aid-in-dying medication. Without dwelling on one thing or another, Mrs. Pereira captures both the relentless nature of the struggle and the ebullience of a man, and a family, that refused to surrender, even at the last. This is a story of inspiration and determination. This is a story of family. This is Helder’s Story.

"This book is a beautiful life narrative of a man that I am honored and privileged to have known personally. Those that knew him at Cancer Support Community Pasadena were moved by Helder's genuine love of life, devotion to his family, and empathy and compassion for others enduring emotional and physical pain due to cancer. His inspirational legacy continues to impact and enrich CSC Pasadena and the lives of those he touched. His wife Carol has captured his spirit in living his life with dignity, to the fullest, and on his own terms." - Laura Wending, LMFT;, Program Director, Cancer Support Community, Pasadena

As a mother of four recreational soccer players, Carol Pereira has been active in her community, most noticeable served on the Region 88 Board of Directors for American Youth Soccer Organization for several years. She is a native Californian and lives in the foothills of Angeles Crest forest.