Silver Spring, MD — An emotional and pragmatic look at the way Americans face death, the PBS-broadcast documentary series, Bill Moyers: On Our Own Terms arrives to DVD from Athena on October 25, 2011. Legendary Emmy® and Peabody Award-winning journalist Bill Moyers (PBS, NBC, CBS) interviews dozens of terminally ill patients in this four-part exploration of end-of-life issues – from health care to cultural attitudes. The series offers illuminating perspectives on the sometimes controversial ethical, medical and economic forces that can drive a person’s decisions surrounding death. The 2-Vol. DVD set also includes a 16-page viewer’s guide, biographies, and more ($49.99, www.AcornOnline.com). On Our Own Terms is Athena’s ninth release from Moyers’ acclaimed library of programs.

While research shows that the majority of the people wish to die at home, most Americans will die in hospitals. In this emotional, powerful, and constructive exploration on death, renowned journalist Bill Moyers interviews dozens of terminally ill patients. From a gentle pediatrician who chooses not to combat his cancer with chemotherapy to palliative-care doctors and hospice workers who focus on comfort rather than cure, this four-part program uses individual portraits to explain the complex concepts and choices that surround “a good death.” Allowing patients from many cultures and backgrounds to speak about their wishes and beliefs, each a poignant story of living with—and redefining—death.

EPISODES: Living with Dying, A Different Kind of Care, A Death of One’s Own, A Time to Change

BONUS FEATURES: 16-page viewer’s guide with an introduction by Bill Moyers, “How to Be with a Dying Person” by the Rev. Chuck Meyer, “Grief” by Kenneth J. Doka, articles on physician-assisted suicide and hospice care, and a glossary of terms; Biography of Bill Moyers, plus more at AthenaLearning.com

Street Date: Oct. 25, 2011
SRP: $49.99
DVD 2-Vol. Boxed Set – 4 Episodes - Approx. 348 minutes – SDH subtitles

Athena released Joseph Campbell and The Power of Myth with Bill Moyers (Sept. 2010), on Faith and Reason (Nov. 2010), Genesis-A Living Conversation (Nov. 2010), In Search of the Constitution (Feb. 2011), A World of Ideas-Writers (Feb. 2011), The Language of Life (April 2011), God & Politics (July 2011) and The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith (Sept. 2011).

Athena releases provide an authoritative and entertaining learning experience through high quality, informative, non-fiction programming. Athena’s releases include 20th Century with Mike Wallace, Genius of Britain, The Making of the President, Cosmos-A Beginners Guide, The Genius of Design, Discovering Hamlet, Playing Shakespeare, Weapons Races, The Battle for Marjah, and The Story of Math. Clips are available at www.athenalearning.com. Athena’s DVD sets are available from select retailers, catalog companies, and direct from Acorn at (888) 870-8047 or www.acornonline.com.