YORK, Maine — Michelle Surdoval’s husband took medication in August to end his life under Maine’s Death with Dignity law. He had been diagnosed with cancer. Two weeks of treatment made him very ill, so he decided he did not want to suffer or add to his family’s pain, Surdoval said.

While she fully supported his decision, Surdoval said she still felt a web of emotions: anguish at losing him, gratitude that they could prepare, relief that he could pass peacefully.

A so-called death cafe in York helped them explore and understand their emotions ahead of time.

Death cafes are not support groups but rather offer guided discussions where people can ask questions about the end of life, share their concerns and make plans for the future. The meetings, which are free to attend, are led by a deat

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