Making Critical Life Choices



June 17, 2005 -- Constant, intense media coverage in the shadow of Terry Shiavo's agonizingly public end-of-life, and Pope John Paul II's seemingly gentle passing, have brought issues of life and living, dying and death into sharp relief for nearly all Americans, of all faiths.

Despite the discomfort many find in that awakening awareness, the daunting issues involved deserve careful consideration. Across our Valley, countless Las Vegans daily face those heart-rending decisions. From doctors' offices, to hospital beds, hospices and even at home, issues involving living, dying and death are faced by families, caring friends, loved ones and the individuals dealing with those difficult decisions for themselves.

There are no easy answers.
Regardless of living wills, in depth personal discussions, deeply held beliefs, religious insight and ethical guidance, each case is different especially when it's your own. And, there is no clear path to prepare for the day those issues arise and those life and death choices need to be made, often on a moment's notice. "Insight and understanding is really the only way to be ready," according to Las Vegas Rabbi Yocheved Mintz. Beyond her Rabbinical studies, life experience and living in a medical family, Mintz has real reason to relate. Herself a cancer survivor, she know the issues first hand.

"We each need to grasp and grapple with the issues involved in living and dying," the Rabbi continues. "It's time for a meaningful, open dialog; looking into decisions we will all someday face, for ourselves or others a conversation in our community, without glaring media, experts contradicting each other or passionate perspectives trying to sell a point of view."

That conversation will take place Thursday, June 23rd, 7:00 pm at the Sahara West Library, open to the entire Las Vegas community. Rabbi Mintz will moderate the non-sectarian dialog, joined by Father Kevin McAuliffe of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Summerlin and Dr. Stewart Stein, Medical Director at Nathan Adelson Hospice. Rabbi Mintz and the panel will explore issues, consider alternatives and offer insight, along with open discussion, so those who attend can leave feeling more comfortable dealing with decisions we will all confront.

This event is free, and open to the public. The Sahara West Library is located at 9600 W. Sahara in Summerlin. For further information, contact Barbara Kenig for IN THE PUBLIC EYE at (702)498-9808.





Making Critical Life Choices