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productive

READ THIS -- IT'S IMPORTANT

On Sunday July 9th, Mom signed an "Advanced Directive" (a.k.a. "living will" or "DNR"). She was signing it in case of complications during the surgery she had scheduled for that Thursday. But she never made it to surgery. On Monday July 10th, she had a seizure that put her into a coma. If she hadn't completed and signed this document, it would have been much more difficult for us -- her family and her doctors -- to know her wishes about being on life support, etc.  Because of it, we were able to, as the doctor gently put it, "let her go" with a clear conscience on Sunday the 16th.
My family decided to make it our mission to tell our friends about this important document. 
I have found a copy of the Texas Advanced Directive online, along with detailed explanations about all the forms you will need in order for your wishes to be carried out.  If you live in Texas, click here. If you live in another state, go to Google and put in "Advanced Directive" and the name of your state to download the form that is legal in your state. (Most hospitals have these forms as well.)  
After you've read it, fill it out and go over it with a loved one. Make sure they understand your wishes. Sign it in front of two witnesses (witnesses can't be family members, heirs, your physician or his/her employees, or employees of the health care facility you're using.) Keep it handy (I keep mine in a ziploc bag in my refrigerator, along with other important documents; it's fireproof.)  After you do this, give blank copies to your family members so they can do the same. (Does your sibling/parent want to be kept alive by artificial means? You don't know? Find out. It could be you they call!)

I know it's not a pleasant subject, but your family will thank you for doing this. Trust me on that.

And while you're at it, think about whether you want to be an organ donor or not. You could save a lot of lives if you do. Find out more info here.