An archive: a three-year journey with ALS
Hanna meets a monster.Both are changed.
Hanna passed away on February 1, 2026, beautifully and peacefully, surrounded by love. These pages remain as an archive of the three years of life that Hanna and those around her experienced as she sought and created "fullness of life with a terminal diagnosis."
Recorded May 2023, three months after diagnosis
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Hanna's obituary
New homes for Hanna's legacy
Works of Hanna du Plessis
Hanna left behind a significant collection of works, precious for the relevance, depth and punch of her voice. We established The Works of Hanna du Plessis to steward these works into publication. See the list of works, and consider donating to their development.
Hanna's voice at Okay Then
The best place for news about forthcoming publications from Hanna, and a shop where you can obtain her work.
Latest update
February 3, 2026
Burial Service
Everyone is invited to a graveside service at Penn Forest Natural Burial Park on Wednesday, February 4th at 3 pm.
Hanna's book!
Hanna’s first book, Bedsores and Bliss: Finding fullness of life with a terminal diagnosis, is available in print, as an eBook, and soon as an audiobook. It’s SUCH a good, true, honest, funny, tough read.
Hanna illustrated a beautiful, charming and funny children’s book called Boppa’s Bald Stories. A man got bald thirteen different ways! His wife wrote a book. Hanna gave it enchanting images.
Short writings from Hanna
Early after her diagnosis, Hanna was writing about gratitude and grief, including reflections on ALS. Here are some of those writings.
We are no longer posting new writings here. You can get Hanna’s published writing and art here, and subscribe to be notified about her new work coming in 2026 here.


