If you or someone you love is seriously ill, consider using these questions as a starting point. You might want to answer them first by yourself, and then discuss them with your loved ones, doctor, and clergy.

• What do you value most in life? What makes life worth living?
• How satisfied are you with what you have achieved in life? What goals do you have for the future?
• What do you fear most?
• Who would you want to make your health care decisions if you could not speak for yourself?
• What are your spiritual and cultural beliefs about serious illness, dying and death?
• How do you want to live at the end of your life?
• When would you want medical treatment to offer comfort rather than prolong life?