I often look at the obituaries, as well, and am curious about the details of people's deaths. I don't really attribute that to my PD as much as just curiousity about death. I don't think that's "sad" of you :) A lot of people are interested in the hows, wheres, and whys of death. It's something we all have to face, it doesn't hurt to know a something about it.
I know the feeling about wanting a full checkup to make sure everything's ok. When I had surgery last April (I had my thyroid removed due to goiter), I had so many worries that my doctor asked if he should move in with me, so he'd be available 24/7 to answer my questions...
;p
As far as which way to turn, just keep talking to people who will help - your doctor, people here. I don't know if we'll ever beat this **** thing, but support makes it a lot better.