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To: M. Dodge Thomas

so where do i get the living will info? does it take an attorney? does it have directions?


69 posted on 11/20/2006 5:54:01 PM PST by MountainFlower
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To: MountainFlower
The correct form for a living will varies from state. Usually the State Bar Assn Site will have info on living wills for yours.

Having a living will is just the start, you need to be sure that whoever you designate to make these decisions if you are unable to do so 1) really understands your desires 2) is prepared to honor them even if they might make a different one for themselves in the same situation, and 3) and is intelligent, persistent and personally forceful enough to make sure they are respected - and that's true whatever your wishes.

I've been in this position both in situations: where someone wanted to give up before I think I would have (my MIL, who was tired of repeated hospitalizations for CHF,and elected to enter hospice and forgo supportive therapy which could have kept her alive longer) and someone who wanted to go on longer that I felt he should have (my Father, dying of cancer).

In each case I attempted to the best of my ability to honor their wishes, but not everyone is able to do this, or wishes to be placed in the position where they have to make such decisions.

I've also been in a position (my FIL, dying of a series of strokes) where there was a LOT of pressure from the hospital on the family to allow procedures (in this case, a feeding tube) which ran counter to his clearly expressed wishes - it can be very, very tough to stand you ground in such circumstances(we did).

So a living will, durable power of attorney for health care or a "do not resuscitate" order are only as effective as you and your dedicated decision makers are able to make them.

79 posted on 11/20/2006 6:38:32 PM PST by M. Dodge Thomas
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