Its OVER : Terri Schiavo has died at age 41.

If there is a lesson to be learned from the case of Terri Schiavo, it is to clearly have your life-intentions legally documented in writing.

That's the lesson huh?

I think the lesson is propaganda and it's proper use to hypnotize a nation.

What does that have to do with guitars, fool? About 99% of us are tired of hearing about it anyway.

nation.

Don't get political on us now, Ren. If anything , it was the liberal media that shoved this matter into your face every day. They had a frenzy with it..best thing since OJ and best alternative to MJ. Now, Larry King will be interviewing anyone who was associated with this.

You are right and I do sincerely feel for her and her close ones. Also anyone in similar heart wrenching situations but, I honestly do not feel that it is the stuff of 10 minute news clips every half hour. On every channel that is exploitation I think. Plus how's the parents of soldiers over in Iraq supposed to feel all this discussion for her and their close ones in harms way with less coverage. I dunno seems upsides

Now be fair. ALL media (regardless of bias, leaning, etc) feasted on this.

It should not be necessary (though I don't disagree with your statement). Legally the husband had the right. I had a heart attack and open heart surgery last summer...I did not have a written document. My wife had the power to decide, both by me and legally. If I did not want her to decide THEN I would have had to put it in writing. This is the way the law is set up and the way it should have been. The parents come AFTER the spouse, then the children. They are not even number two if there are children. The parents simply did not have the legal right...and many people thought they should have had it. Doesn't change the law however.

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of her family and friends. Nutjobs on both ends of the political spectrum NOT included.

Regardless of where you fall on the politics of this thing, this is a reminder that everybody needs to put their wishes in writing and discuss with family members in advance. In most cases, you can do this without an attorney. Search your state law database for words like 'living will', 'directive to physicians' or 'health care directive'. MANY states have a form right in the laws! If not, many hospitals have one that they will GIVE you for the asking. If it is silent on artificial means of nutrition and hydration, WRITE IT IN. Pay attention to whether you need witnesses or notary seal when signing. If you have a regular physician, discuss with him/her and put a copy in your medical record. Such a document can be used to state your wishes EITHER way. It isn't just for allowing them to remove life support, you can say you want extraordinary means (if that's what you want).

The above is not legal advice, but intended to help your family and loved ones avoid a similar mess.

Link to find your state laws: http://www.findlaw.com

I think the main thing is as always it was turned into a media circus, Pulling a life support happens every day