My Life My Choices

What are your end-of-life wishes? Have you talked with anyone else about them? Have you written them down? We all plan for expected events. Vacations, weddings, the birth of a child. It is just as important to plan for the health care you want to receive in the future. There are three important steps to declaring your choices for your life… 1. Think About It. Think about your values, beliefs, and goals… How do they relate to your health care and quality of life? What matters most to you? Who can you talk with about these important choices? What does it mean to you to “live well”? Do you have religious or spiritual beliefs that give you support, comfort and guidance? 2. Talk About It. Talking with loved ones openly and honestly—before a medical crisis happens—gives everyone a shared understanding about what matters most to you at the end of your life. A conversation starter kit is a useful tool to help you begin the dialogue about your health care desires. We’ve made this tool—and many others—available for free on our resources page. 3. Write It Down. Now it’s time to decide who will speak for you if you are unable to speak for yourself. Write it down in a South Carolina Health Care Power of Attorney form. Share this document with your loved ones and your doctors. After you’ve talked it over and completed your advance directive forms, you will be able to rest easier knowing your choices about your life will be carried out the way you want them.