Originally from the Illawarra, the award-winning author will discuss this tragedy – the premise of her recent book After – at Shellharbour City Library on Sunday.

“She never communicated what she was going through or what was on her mind or what she was planning to do, so I think the book helped to open up a conversation,” Ms Gemmell said.

The non-fiction work delves into euthanasia, elderly parents, relationships, life and death.

After reading the book, often people want to tell Ms Gemmell of their own stories, their attitude towards euthanasia and nursing homes, tales of chronic pain like her mother’s and a lot of worry about getting older.

“There’s a lot of fear about a loss of control,” she said.

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The character Helen in the book is a doctor Ms Gemmell met who was very similar to her mother but was transparent about her wishes with her family through every step.

“Her’s was an empowered death whereas my mum’s was kind of a bleak and lonely death, she was frightened which breaks my heart,” she said.

The author talk event is free, though bookings are essential. Books will also be available for purchase and signing. For more information call 4221 6222 or book at http://libraries.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/ .

If you or someone you know need some help, contact Lifelin on 13 11 14.