Guest Author - Lili Pintea-Reed

We recently had a relative die who was a fiercely independent old codger. He got his wish to die independent in his own apartment, but his body was revivied by well meaning EMT's to go to the hospital to eventually die on life support. He had always said, "I'll never die hooked up to one of those blank blank machines." Well he got the first part of his wish, but because he had no Living Will we were not able to give him the last part. Unless you have a Living Will which refuses any extensive medical interventions to prolong life, physicians are obligated to do everything to keep your body going.

A Living Will is a document which plainly states whether you want special services to prolong your life while dying.

So Please Prepare. You can get a free Living Will preparation kit from the state Of NY Attorney Generals Office. This also includes Medical Power of Attorney Forms and other information on planning for extreme medical emergencies at:


http://www.oag.state.ny.us/health/EOLGUIDE012605.pdf


You can Also go to a Fine List of Free Living Will Forms by State at:

http://www.caringinfo.org/stateaddownload


The Connneticut Attorney Generals Office Also Give A free Living Will form To Recidents:

http://www.ct.gov/ag/cwp/browse.asp?a=2130&bc=0&c=19278


Copies of this document should be givien to:
1) The person you name to represent you
2) Your Family Physician
3) Your Hospital(s) for inclusion in Your Medical Records
4) The Local Ambulance Service You Use
5) Any other friends and Family You think may need to represent your Wishes

Don't be left powerless in the hands of others in your last moments. Take Charge of this part of your life now.