The process may begin with discussions between you and your family and doctor. If anybody is reluctant to discuss the subject, Sabatino suggests starting the conversation with a story. Get your doctor's commitment to support your wishes. And make sure the person you name as surrogate agrees to act for you and understands your wishes. Give a copy to your surrogate, your doctor, your hospital, and other family members.
Some people carry a copy in their wallet or glove compartment of their car.
The free, privately funded confidential service will instantly fax a copy to a hospital when the hospital requests one. The idea that life is still worth living continues to readjust itself. Of the approximately 30,000 people who died in Oregon in 1999, only 33 received permission to have a lethal dose of medication and only 26 of those actually died of the medication. Surrogates may request an end to life support, but to assist in a suicide puts one at risk for charges of homicide. All rights reserved.