Jay Rockefeller: “I am extremely pleased to be joined by my colleagues, Senator Collins and Senator Wyden, in introducing the Advanced…”

“I am extremely pleased to be joined by my colleagues, Senator Collins and Senator Wyden, in introducing the Advanced Directives and Compassionate Care Act of 2002. The end of life is a difficult time for individuals and their families. A complex web of emotional, legal, medical, and spiritual demands magnify the pain and turmoil already being experienced. Loss of control can result in depression and confusion, sometimes even hastening death. And, too often, a lifetime's dignity can be stripped away in a person's final months, leaving their survivors an inheritance of sadness and regret. The Advanced Directives and Compassionate Care Act will help families and individuals avoid this bitter legacy, by helping maintain greater control of their final months. It gives patients greater information and power in determining treatment and hospice options. The legislation addresses legal issues that often arise at the end-of-life, and makes it more certain that advanced directives, such as 'living wills' will be followed. It promotes the hospice-based care that most terminally ill patients prefer. Most important, it gives people a better chance to maintain their dignity in their final hours. I urge that the Senate take up this vital and compassionate legislation this year, and that we ensure its passage before we return home this fall.”