Governor Proclaims May 22-26 as Life Planning Week

Self-help guides available for free download in English and Spanish

MADISON, May 18, 2006 – At the request of the State Bar of Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle proclaimed May 22-26 as Life Planning Week in Wisconsin. During Life Planning Week the State Bar increases public awareness about the importance of preparing for future health care needs. During the week people can download a self-help guide, "A Gift to Your Family: Planning Ahead for Future Healthcare Needs" in English or in Spanish at no cost.

"Treatment of our loved ones in their final days is something every family must deal with," Governor Doyle said. "And making treatment preferences known in advance can help prevent heartache and confusion. I urge Wisconsin residents to prepare for their future health care needs by discussing their end-of-life wishes and treatment preferences with their loved ones."

The State Bar joined forces in 1999 with the Wisconsin Hospital Association, the Wisconsin Medical Society and Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center to develop the guide and promote statewide public service campaigns on life planning. The guide, developed by Wisconsin lawyers and medical experts, provides information, instructions and medical forms and answers questions about advance care planning issues, such as the power of attorney for health care, living wills, and organ and tissue donation. Since 1999 more than 250,000 copies of the guide have been distributed.

During Life Planning Week download a free guide at www.legalexplorer.com. To order preprinted copies, contact the State Bar of Wisconsin, (800) 728-7788. Individual copies are $2.99 + tax.

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