There are many reasons to be disturbed by the long, sad saga of
Terri Schiavo.
There are many reasons to be disturbed by the long, sad saga of Terri Schiavo.
It’s disturbing that what should have been a private family tragedy became a public spectacle.
How would Terri Shiavo, by all accounts a shy woman, have felt about her last days being robbed of any semblance of dignity? How would she have felt if she knew that details of her medical care, and even her autopsy, were discussed internationally by complete strangers?
It’s disturbing that protesters, ostensibly so concerned about Terri Schiavo, did not extend that concern to others.
The loud demonstrators camped outside her hospice did not care a whit for the comfort of the facility’s other patients or the ability of their loved ones to visit during their final days.
They did not mind so disrupting the nearby elementary school that its 600 students required a police escort to get to school and finally had to attend classes in unfamiliar facilities out of concern for their safety.
It’s disturbing that a majority of members of the United States Congress was willing to trample the rule of law as established by the Constitution and violate the separation of powers to try to make political hay.
It’s reassuring, at least, that the majority of the U.S. population saw the maneuver for the cheap political ploy it was, was horrified by the thought of politicians making their medical decisions, and told poll after poll that they disapproved.
There are a few lessons to be learned from the Schiavo case, if you want to prevent her sad fate from befalling you and your family.
First, put your wishes in writing.
Make an appointment with an attorney to write two important documents: a living will that specifies what kind of medical treatment you would want if you can no longer speak for yourself, and a medical power of attorney that designates someone to make health care decisions if you can no longer do so.
Whether you want to sign a “do not resuscitate” order or you want every medical option pursued, you need to put your wishes in writing to avoid bitter disputes like the one the Schiavo family endured.
Second, tell your entire family about your wishes about medical care and who is authorized to implement them.
This is especially important if you think they won’t agree. Make sure that your spouse, children, parents, siblings and close friends all understand what your wishes are and that you expect them to respect them.
Only one person can be authorized to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Clearly communicating your wishes to everyone else who loves you reduces the likelihood of emotionally and financially draining lawsuits.
If any good can come of the 15-year saga Terri Schiavo and her family endured, let it be that by hearing her story, many people will avoid suffering the same fate.
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