Is a living will with clauses against extraordinary measures a sin?

[OldArmyDog]

First, I was hurt at 19 and have been dealing with consequent medical issues since including three heart attacks and twelve spine surgeries. Eventually, to avoid paralysis, I will have to have three more spine surgeries and they are on the very high side of invasive.

I see a psychologist and a psychiatrist and both assure me that though I am clinically depressed, it is under decent control and that though I have some memory issues, my cognitive abilities are not affected to the point of questionable judgement.

I do not want to wake up from a surgery with only a breathing machine between me and what awaits me. I have no issues with intubation for surgery and anesthesia but I do not want to spend whatever remains of my life relying on a machine. Perhaps I am simply weak, but I do not believe my sanity would stay intact.

Is this clause in my living will a sin and am I putting my very soul at risk with the real probability that it might be invoked?

 

[SuscipeMeDomine]

You might find this info helpful when thinking about end-of-life care: catholic.com/quickquestions/what-is-the-churchs-teaching-on-extraordinary-care-for-the-sick

In short, the Church does not require extraordinary means to be used to keep someone alive at all costs. Nutrition and hydration are considered ordinary care, but beyond that you have options.

Even though you’re not Catholic yet, you may find it helpful to talk with a priest as you sort through these issues. From my own experience, these decisions take both thought and prayer.

 

[OldArmyDog]

You might find this info helpful when thinking about end-of-life care: catholic.com/quickquestions/what-is-the-churchs-teaching-on-extraordinary-care-for-the-sick

In short, the Church does not require extraordinary means to be used to keep someone alive at all costs. Nutrition and hydration are considered ordinary care, but beyond that you have options.

Even though you’re not Catholic yet, you may find it helpful to talk with a priest as you sort through these issues. From my own experience, these decisions take both thought and prayer.

Thank you very much for the link; I searched but somehow I missed it but then again it was kind of a rough night and the neurons are not at 100%.

 

[Bonnie]

I do not want to wake up from a surgery with only a breathing machine between me and what awaits me. I have no issues with intubation for surgery and anesthesia but I do not want to spend whatever remains of my life relying on a machine. Perhaps I am simply weak, but I do not believe my sanity would stay intact.

I’m with you. We’ve discussed this & told our children. My smart daughter said to make sure we have it it writing, just in case decisions have to be made without them.

 

[Crusaderbear]

Yeah, my wife and I need to do the living will thing…

 

[edwest2]

First, I was hurt at 19 and have been dealing with consequent medical issues since including three heart attacks and twelve spine surgeries. Eventually, to avoid paralysis, I will have to have three more spine surgeries and they are on the very high side of invasive.

I see a psychologist and a psychiatrist and both assure me that though I am clinically depressed, it is under decent control and that though I have some memory issues, my cognitive abilities are not affected to the point of questionable judgement.

I do not want to wake up from a surgery with only a breathing machine between me and what awaits me. I have no issues with intubation for surgery and anesthesia but I do not want to spend whatever remains of my life relying on a machine. Perhaps I am simply weak, but I do not believe my sanity would stay intact.

Is this clause in my living will a sin and am I putting my very soul at risk with the real probability that it might be invoked?

The National Catholic Bioethics Center would be glad to advise you:

ncbcenter.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=1182

Here is their End of Life Guide:

ncbcenter.org/page.aspx?pid=1204

God bless,
Ed

 

[pianistclare]

In addition to what the others have said, make sure you have a good relationship with your parish priest. Make sure everyone knows to call him to advise them in stressful times of decision making, and make sure they know you want to be anointed. Keep him in the loop if you being to fail.
Praying for your health and pain issues.
God bless.

 

[edwest2]

Yes, I’ve had anointing of the sick the last time I was almost hospitalized.

Best,
Ed