Kathleen Ann Buongiorne Gillespie, age 74,  died at home in San Diego, CA on June 24.  Her death was a "Medical Aid in Dying" (MAID) death.  She had endured cancer for eight years.  The pain ultimately could not be controlled.

Kathy was born in Brockport, NY as was her husband, David.  The high school sweethearts were married for 55 years. She lived most of her life in Virginia most recently in Rockville, VA from 1997 to 2014.  She was a graduate of Brockport State and Virginia Commonwealth University.  She was a software engineer at a time when very few women were in technical positions.  She designed and implemented control systems for equipment as diverse as aircraft and industrial ventilation systems.  She described her career as having to "work like a slave to be paid like a secretary."

She is survived by her husband, David, daughter Laura Gillespie of Arlington, VA, son Aaron of Beaverton, OR, son Patrick of San Diego, five grandchildren, four sisters and a large extended Family.

If you live in a state which has not legalized MAID you are encouraged to contact your state legislators asking them to support MAID.  MAID is a blessing to both the patient and the survivors.