Why You Need a Living Will
No one likes thinking about end-of-life care. But without clear written instructions, your family may face impossible decisions — and your wishes may not be honored.
The Problem with “No Heroic Measures”
Many people tell their families something like “I don't want to be kept alive on machines” or “no heroic measures.” But what does that actually mean?
Does “no heroic measures” include a feeding tube? What about temporary ventilation while treating pneumonia? Does it apply if there's a 50% chance of recovery? What about a 5% chance?
Without specifics, doctors and family members may interpret vague instructions very differently — and the patient's actual wishes may not be followed.
Lessons from Landmark Cases
Cruzan v. Director, Missouri Department of Health (1990)
Nancy Cruzan was left in a persistent vegetative state after a car accident. Her parents fought for years to remove her feeding tube, but the Supreme Court ruled that Missouri could require “clear and convincing evidence” of her wishes. Without a written directive, the case dragged on for seven years before being resolved.
Takeaway: A written living will provides the clear evidence courts require.
The Terri Schiavo Case (1998–2005)
Terri Schiavo's case became a national controversy when her husband and parents disagreed about whether she would have wanted to continue life-sustaining treatment. Without a written directive, the case went through 14 appeals, 5 lawsuits, and involvement from the Florida Legislature, U.S. Congress, and the President.
Takeaway: Without a living will, family disagreements can become prolonged legal battles.
What Happens Without a Living Will?
- Doctors will generally provide all available treatments by default
- Your family may have to make gut-wrenching decisions under extreme stress
- Family members may disagree about what you would have wanted
- Courts may need to get involved, adding legal costs and delays
- Your actual wishes may never be known or honored
You Can Be Specific
A good living will doesn't just say “no life support.” It addresses each type of treatment individually. Our tool asks you about each one separately:
- CPR — separately from ventilation
- Feeding tubes — separately from IV hydration
- Short-term ventilation — separately from long-term
- Antibiotics for comfort — separately from antibiotics to extend life
This level of specificity removes ambiguity and gives your family and medical team clear guidance.
Important: This tool provides a template for creating a living will based on your state's general requirements. It is not legal advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified attorney. For complex medical situations, blended families, or significant assets, we recommend having an attorney review your document.