It's important to write living wills

The Terri Schiavo case in Florida has identified a real horror story. Terri's husband wants to remove her feeding tube so that she will die. Her parents want rehabilitative treatment to teach her to swallow. She is 41 and breathing on her own.

Medical treatment has advanced greatly. One of the most important actions we can take to protect ourselves: designate in writing the name of a trusted person who will make medical decisions for us in case we are unable to communicate our wishes.

In our mobile society we may need treatment away from our regular doctor. We must carry a notice that we have signed a document naming a spokesperson of our choice.

We cannot say, "I don't want to be hooked up to tubes." Tubes are standard treatment!

Let's not cut off critical help. Immediate treatment may save a stroke or heart attack victim.

Jan Tobin, Mount Vernon

Letters to the Editor - Skagit Valley Herald