by ColdRedRain 14 Replies latest jw friends
Great idea you have there CCR.
I replaced my JW No Blood Card with my new MEDIC Blood Center Card. It is next to my Prayer Ministry Card. I don't think anyone will know that I used to be a cult member in good standing when they peek in my little brown leather wallet.
Excellent CCR. Just don't forget to get two Witnesses to witness your signature on it.
This post really got me thinking, because if my husband and I were ever both incapacitated, then JW family members may be left to make medical decisions for us. Since hubby is a fader, I don't think they would think twice before saying, "Of course he doesn't want blood!" even though he hasn't carried a No Blood card for at least four years.
I like the card made above, and I stole some of the language to tailor my own. This is what I came up with, and I was wondering if I could get some feedback on it from anyone who knows more about these things ... There's no law in my state requiring certain language for advance directives, but there are requirements (two signatures plus have it notarized) to appoint a patient advocate -- someone to make decisions for you. I think spouses are automatically one's advocate, but I'm throwing it in there anyway to avoid any Terri Shiavo-like problems. So, here's my draft:
Living Will / Advance Medical Directive
I, [my name here], being of sound mind, submit this writing to be an expression of my consent to any necessary medical services if I should become incapacitated.
I authorize my husband, [husband’s name here], to make any and all medical decisions on my behalf. I hereby appoint him to be my Patient Advocate.
I hereby consent to receive blood transfusions. It is my express wish that if a transfusion or any blood products are needed, that I DO want them to be administered to me.
Please DO NOT allow any persons who currently adhere to the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses to refuse blood on my behalf. I do not follow their teachings. If I am unconscious or otherwise incapacitated and need a blood transfusion, I give my authority for any medical professional to provide a blood transfusion or any other necessary care to me.
Photocopies of this document, after it is signed and witnessed, shall have the same legal force as the original document.
I sign this document after careful consideration. I understand its meaning and I accept its consequences.
(signatures, etc)
... I realize that it's very redundant, but I don't want any mix-up or misinterpretation.
I'm going to run it by an attorney and then hubby and I will each carry copies on our person at all times.
Thanks for this post. I never would have thought to do this otherwise. Hopefully it'll never be an issue ... but there is no way either of us is going to do for a faith in which we do not believe.
SLM
Here's mine...
Oh my gosh, that is AWESOME!! Ha!!
I bet hubby will want that one now ...
SLM
