You Can Pull the Plug, Please.

It’s always a good idea to have your wishes laid out in writing so there is no confusion in the event that something happens. Planning ahead is doing something nice for your tomorrow self, like setting your clothes out for the following day, or doing a meal plan for the week, so you’re not guessing what’s for dinner.

For example, I have told my husband under no circumstances am I to be buried when I die. The idea of my claustrophobic self going into the ground will be enough to give my spirit a panic attack. I want to be cremated and spread in a place that has meaning to my family. I have memorialized this in a will, so that all my husband or other survivors have to do is pull it out of the drawer, and follow instructions, like a macabre recipe. I also have a medical power of attorney that states that if I am brain dead, and all measures have been taken to save me, then one of my best friends is to direct medical staff to cease life preserving attempts (I love Kevin, but come on. He will leave me on a machine.). Having these plans in place not only ensures that your wishes are met, but it makes it easier on the people you love that will be dealing with a lot at that time.

Another consideration is if you are not married. Technically, if you aren’t married, and don’t have the best relationship with your biological family, a medical or financial power of attorney is key, as is a will. You don’t want them calling your brother that you haven’t talked to in 20 years to come and make your decisions for you, possibly kicking out a partner or a friend that has your best wishes at heart. Ensuring that you have up to date documentation protects you and the people you love in a simple process that Newton Law PLLC can handle for you.