Recent events in Florida have focused the nation on the issue of a patient's right to die. The Board of Directors of Gulfside Regional Hospice and its professional staff have always stressed the importance of family planning around end of life issues and the importance of a plan of care for the individual. The planning process needs to consider a living will statement. This document directs family survivors as to the wishes of the patient. This document directs the medical community as to the wishes of the patient. This document needs to be signed by the patient. In the public interest and at the recommendation of Gulfside Regional Hospice, a Sample of a living will is published here. While this sample is just that, the reader is encouraged to visit with their family attorney to prepare the appropriate document as part of the individual's fundamental right of self determination. As a community service, Gulfside Regional Hospice offers its services to any family in Pasco County who would like to talk about their planning process and any concerns they may have for end of life care. For assistance, call us at 727-845-5707.