The Conversation Project
Posted: February 11, 2014 Filed under: Emotional and Physical Challenges | Tags: caregiving-book, death, difficulty, discussion 9 CommentsOn page 160 of our book, What to Do about Mama? by Barbara G. Matthews and Barbara Trainin Blank, it states:
“I acknowledge that broaching the topic of death and dying with parents and family members is very difficult and even painful. We may have living wills that specify that ‘no extraordinary measures’ be taken, but how do we and our family members interpret that directive in the midst of a highly emotional crisis situation? The issue is confusing and complicated to say the least—one that presents huge challenges for the elderly and their caretakers.
I would respectfully suggest, however, that it would behoove us all to have this difficult discussion well before the time of need arises so that decisions for treatment are based on our loved one’s expressed wishes.”
The Conversation Project Starter Kit will certainly facilitate the discussion: The Conversation Project – Have You Had The Conversation?
Also visit What to Do about Mama? on Facebook: Visit https://www.facebook.com/whattodoaboutmama
Barbara Matthews
What to Do about Mama? 
An article “Nurse cites ‘unjust prosecution’ in dad’s death” appeared in the Thursday 2-13-14 edition of the Patriot News, Harrisburg PA. As reported:
• A 93-year-old father was terminally ill and receiving hospice services.
• The nurse was charged with giving a nearly full bottle of morphine to her father for the purpose of helping him end his life.
• The hospice nurse called 911, which the daughter called a violation of her father’s “end-of-life wishes.”
• The father died at the hospital four days later.
• The judge ruled that the prosecution failed to prove that a crime had occurred, and had based their case on speculation and guesswork.
• Supporters from Compassion & Choices begged PA’s attorney general to refrain from appealing the judge’s decision to dismiss the case.
• The group’s spokeswoman stated, “The arrest of a family caregiver providing pain medication to a dying loved one has a chilling effect for families across the country.”
I assume the nurse and her father had had the “difficult discussion.” In this case, it became only more difficult.
What’s your take?
See blog entry 4-19-2014: “A Controversial Issue Worthy of Comments” for further discussion of this topic.
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