Statement by Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26):
On Monday, March 21, 2005, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 203-58 during an emergency session of allowing a federal court to review the case of Terri Schiavo; President George W. Bush signed the bill later Monday morning.

“The right-to-life is something I stand firmly behind. As Congress has worked over the past several weeks to secure the jurisdiction of federal courts to review the circumstances concerning Terri Schiavo’s case, I am careful to remember that this situation has been a battle for the Schiavo family for 15 years.

As the House convened for a special session late on Sunday evening, I knew that we were discussing a pressing issue that faces not only the Schiavo family but also thousands of families around the country.

As a doctor, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a living will or advance directive. It is your freedom to direct your doctors or physicians to which treatments you will or won’t accept for conditions of which there is little or no hope of recovery.

What happens if you don’t provide a living will for your family? The stress associated with making these crucial decisions for a loved one can tear a family apart.

I know most people are uncomfortable thinking about a time when this decision might be necessary for them or a loved one, but it is crucial to make decisions now. Families can prevent family turmoil and emotional stress by discussing these weighty decisions.

It is a simple process that does not require an attorney – you can do this on your own. Go online and conduct a search for ‘Living Wills’ for the simple forms or ask your family physician.”