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VNSNY Offers Free Workshops on End of Life Advance Directices and NY Law
Free Workshops Scheduled in all Boroughs
(NEW YORK, JULY 6) The Terri Schiavo situation raised consciousness throughout the country that the best way to avoid such contentious situations is to appoint a health care proxy and leave an advance directive before the occasion arises.
The Visiting Nurse Service of New York will offer New Yorkers free workshops throughout the summer to explain the best way to assure the end of life wishes for every individual, whether that be "pulling the plug" or continuing treatment no matter how hopeless the situation. The workshops, scheduled in all five boroughs, will also explain laws specific to New York State.
The first workshop will be held at the Park Slope branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, 431 Sixth Avenue on Wednesday, July 13, 1 PM to 2 PM. On July 28, 1 PM to 2 PM, the workshop will be conducted at the Flushing Branch of the Queens Public Library, 41-17 Main Street.. There will also be a seminar in Manhattan at Visiting Nurse Service of New York offices at 1250 Broadway in Room 7A on July 26 from 6 PM to 7 PM. The date, time, and place for the Bronx will be announced soon. Space is limited, and reservations are suggested but not required. To reserve, call (212) 609-1550.
Among the issues to be addressed are:
- What is a health care proxy and whom should you choose in the event you cannot speak for yourself, and why it is important to have one no matter what your age.
- New York and Missouri are the only states that require a completed written form designating a health care proxy who would make decisions for you. A husband or parent is not automatically designated as it was in Florida in the Schiavo case.
- The importance of a directive outlining what you would or wouldn't want to happen to you should you become unconscious or lack mental capacity to make decisions.
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