Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 The author, Barbara Coombs Lee, began her medical career as a candy striper at St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, Illinois. She has been working in health care for almost fifty-five years, specializing in intensive care and emergency rooms. #2 The sad truth is that advance directives are often ignored, particularly in situations like Maria's, when a sudden catastrophe occurs. Advance directives apply in two circumstances: if a person is terminally ill or permanently unconscious, and then medical providers are supposed to honor the wishes of the patient. #3 The author advises people to have a conversation with their loved ones about what they want, so that they can be sure their wishes are being fulfilled. It's hard to have that conversation, because people are afraid of death. #4 The most important thing we can tell our loved ones is that if they are asked to make decisions when we cannot, know our values and what is most sacred to us, and act accordingly.