After Compassion & Choices attempted to file an amicus brief in the Oklahoma Supreme Court case, Wall Street Journal reporter Ashlea Ebeling interviewed our staff to talk about a case in which a patient’s end-of-life wishes were not respected. Ebeling’s article, She Signed a Living Will. Her Sister Didn’t Honor It, shows the complications that Lynne Chelsey and many others could face when advance directives are not respected.

When she was diagnosed with a degenerative disease, Lynne Chesley signed an advance directive refusing artificial life support. Despite this, she spent over three years on a feeding tube while her family fought over her wishes. In 2023, the Oklahoma Supreme Court upheld her directive, reinforcing the legal strength of such documents.

Advance directives allow individuals to detail their medical preferences and appoint a healthcare proxy to enforce them. As Compassion & Choice senior staff attorney Amitai Heller notes,“This is a gift you’re giving your family. They don’t have to decide if you’re going to live or die.” .

Chesley’s case highlights the need for clear communication alongside legal preparation. Disputes often arise when proxies or loved ones misunderstand advance directives. Sharing your wishes and ensuring the document is accessible can prevent such conflicts, providing peace of mind and honoring your end-of-life decisions.

Read the full article here.

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