Dear onthebeach,

Most reputable nursing homes have information
available on what the options are for a
terminally ill person. They have leaflets and
pamphlets, and contact details available.
We received our information from Blue Cross -
which I'm sure will happily mail any information
to anyone who asked for it. Also getting in touch
with your local MP might also be worthwhile.

The two websites might be of some interest:

http://www.ethicalrights.com/submissions/human-rights/83-the-right-to-die-with-dignity-euthanasia.html

http://www.exitinternational.net/page/Australia

My 80 year old mother was considering what to write in her advanced directive papers.

I suggested she have the usual 'do not resuscitate' if she has a life-limiting disease or event such as a major stroke or brain hemorrhage/injury.

But also that if she is unable to speak for herself, that she is not placed on artificial life support or be given life prolonging medications such as antibiotics, should she develop pneumonia or other infection.

Because my brothers aren't keen on 'allowing' people to die without trying absolutely everything first (especially their relative!), Mum decided to go for a one off visit to a lawyer that specialises in advanced life directives.

She ended up with an iron- clad directive that spells out her wishes in a lawful way.
Hospital staff and relatives have to follow her written wishes under the law.
She is happy now!

Dear Suse,

Thanks for that.

I shall now take the same step with my mother -
(she's 91). We've got an excellent lawyer -
and he'll be able to take care of this matter for us.

Again, Thank You.

It looks like this thread has now run its
course. I would like to Thank everyone who
contributed to this discussion.

See you all on another thread.

Suseonline,

That is the sort of real life experience that needs to be shared. I am surprised there isn't more of it but perhaps I do not visit the right forums. People need to share concerns and wisdom.

Some of my relatives have experienced rapid declines where all were in shock trying to work out what to do. Others have been unfortunate enough to linger for a long time. The final year and more can be horrendous for the person concerned. Many nurses I know have seen a lot of that.

I haven't see many kind deaths. Going in one's sleep must be less usual, more Hollywood. Speaking for myself, I would hate to be trapped in a body that cannot work and not being to communicate as well is a horrifying prospect. So I guess I need to consider stroke and similar problems up front.

I was hoping that people like David F., and
Loudmouth(Joe) would add their experiences to
this discussion. David F., heard Dr Philip
Nitschke, of the pro-euthanasia group speak,
and I believe that Loudmouth (Joe) had personal
experiences with death.

It is only through sharing these experiences that
our knowledge on the subject broadens and we learn.