End of Life Decisions

In my opinion this is a great subject, be it someone is young, old, healthy or ill. In the last few years I have seen in my family things go a little side ways because a couple people did not have their wishes in order. Sad but true. Here in Georgia USA, we have something called an "Advance Directive for Medical Care". This gives options from of the care you wish for and that of what famiy member or friend you wish to follow through with these wishes, at the end if no one is available that is listed then it would be up to the doctor at the time, but the form still states exactly what I want and when, Recently to do multiple medical conditions, I have signed a DNR "Do Not resuscitate". Other areas might call them "Living Trust" or "living Wilks". What we did was contacted an attorney for they usually will give some misc .free advice and knowledge what what your options could be for your area. At times there is Department of Aging or a local senior center might be able to assist you and what information you are seeking. Either way, here we have to make sure that many have copies, fire department, each of the ambulance services, hospital, hospital groups, primary doctor etc... always have a copy at home and ready for when you might need it. There is always checking out Hospice assistance when time gets closer also. Could possible also give a trusted family member or friend a "Medical Power of an Attorney" with your instructions of course, thus would only come in to play if you are incapable to make your own choices at the time.

Hope some of this is helpful to you, again I believe everyone should consider doing something like this, just settles the mind in my eyes.

Hi . No need to worry about raising this topic. End of life care is something we should all think about at some point, regardless of our health status, and it's a topic that really shouldn't be taboo. gave you some excellent advice. It is important to know, though, that health professionals are not obligated to abide by your directive or order if they believe it's not in your best interest. So it's really important to talk to loved ones about your wishes and to appoint someone you trust as your health proxy. Your health proxy can make decisions for you if you are unable. Here is a wonderful article about living wills that might interest you: https://copd.net/living/myths-facts-living-wills. I hope this helps and that you get more input from others in the community. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)

Before my diagnosis I knew what the letters COPD represented. I had a basic knowledge of what to expect due to a distant friend having this disease.
Seeing my friend's progression and reading the posts here on this site, I am beginning to wonder if staying ignorant would have been better than the knowledge. I reàd of the health issues and acknowledge the struggles many here are combating and wonder if I will have the same fortitude to face my progression as they have. I admire the determination and strength many here write about dealing with their journey.
Many years ago, I chose to live my life based on quality and not quantity. I did what I wanted, ate what I wanted and lived my life doing all the things the "experts" said I shouldn't do. I am 73, and I have no sign of heart disease, all my numbers are within range and I can still function. For now.
Death itself does not frighten me. It wasn't the ending that ever concerned me, it was the how the ending would play out. I guess at this stage I have an idea of what my end play will entail and I know that there will come a point where I will cross that line I drew in the sand. I also know that I lack the fortitude that many here possess in their journey.

Thank you for your kind words. Maybe as the road becomes more bumpy, I will discover this tenacity that you speak of. I wish you well.