 Your Money - Your Life Medical Directive Your Medical Directive/Medical Power of Attorney tells your appointee how you want to treated if you can't speak for yourself, so your  appointee has some direction. This is a person you have had a conversation about your wants and needs. It is important that you have an up to date Medical Directive (Living Will). Unfortunately, accidents happen, even to young people. Christopher Reeve didn't expect to become a quadriplegic at 43 when he was thrown from that horse. If you are being treated by your regular Doctor, she might know what you would want; but if you are with a Doctor who doesn't  know you, she is going to need direction. A trusted friend or family member should be designated in the event you cannot make medical decisions yourself, or speak with Doctors and other medical team members about your treatment. Give copies copies to your Doctor, your Family, and anyone else who needs one. If you have to go to the hospital, be sure to take a copy with you. This will stop all quarrels about your care. This document can also include your last wishes so you will be treated with dignity and respect. | 
are used to needing direction when you work it may be more difficult to make the change; if you are more of a free spirit it will be easier. It takes less than a month for this behavior to become a habit.
