Former First Lady Barbara Bush's recent decision to discontinue seeking medical help for her terminal illness has sparked a debate on patients who are living their last days and no longer want to fight to stay alive.
The 92-year-old political figure has reportedly sought "comfort care" in place of the treatment she was previously receiving. She is suffering from congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Comfort Care vs. Medical Treatment
For many, the term "comfort care" is often seen as the patient giving up, but in Bush's situation that isn't the case.
Ellen Goodman, who is the co-founder of of the Conversation Project, stated that she felt Bush's decision was a good choice and praised the former first lady for her choice.
"With her failing health, that she would say at some point, 'Life's been good, and while you always want more, it's enough,'" Goodman stated.
The Conversation Project is an organization that encourages families to discuss their "end of the life" choices.
Another expert on the current topic that had the same sentiments as Goodman is Dr. Joanne Lynn, who agreed the the decision "made perfect sense."
"It's a personal decision that she didn't have to share, but hopefully it will encourage others to think about their choices, talk about their choices, document their choices and have those choices honored," Lynn stated.
Another expert who also praised Bush's decision that has now brought awareness to the term "comfort care" is Dr. Haider Warraich. Warraich commended the family's spokesperson for putting that word in the statement regarding Bush's health.
Lady Bush
The wife of former President George H.W. Bush served as First Lady of the United States from 1989 to 1993. She also served as Second Lady of the United States from 1989 to 1991. Bush was highly involved in the cause for universal literacy and became active in the literacy committees and organizations. She created the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy during her time as first lady.
Bush is the mother to George W. Bush, who served as the 43rd President of the United States, Pauline Bush, Jeb Bush, Neil Bush, Marvin Bush, and Dorothy Bush.
