Question A

[Jonetta]

Sam wakes to a frantic call from Celia that Skip is in distress. When the EMTs arrive, they let her know there’s no pulse and she stops them from resuscitation efforts as he has a DNR. Celia was apoplectic and angry at the decision. Did Sam do the right thing or should she have at least let them try? Was Celia’s reaction understandable or was she being unfair? Where did Sam get the strength to make this decision?

[Anita]

Sam did the right thing. Skip did not want any means done to keep him alive and he made that plain to Sam the last time he was in the hospital. Celia was unfair to Sam - she was just following Skip's wishes. Skip gave her the strength to make this decision, even though Sam would have loved to keep him here longer.

[Sharon]

Celia is too close to the situation at that moment. She spent most of her time with Skip, covering their relationship. It is hard to let go of someone you love so much, regardless of their requests. Sam did the right thing. Even though it was hard for her, she did what Skip requested. Sam knew her father before the accident and how difficult it was for him to deal with the limitations of his disability. I believe that is what made her strong enough to stop the resuscitation.

[Lauren]

Yes, Sam did the right thing, She knew her father didn't want any extreme measures taken

IIRC, a few books back, there was an issue with Skip having asked Sam to euthanase him if he was in really bad shape. Celia said she would do it herself rather than Sam. Thus, I was somewhat surprised at Celia's anger toward Sam.

[Anita]

I remember that too, Lauren. I had thought they were agreed on this and Skip was very clear as to what he wanted.

[Sharon]

I remember that too, Lauren. It surprised me that Celia even questioned the decision.

[Robin]

I agree with everyone...Sam did the right thing. Celia was upset, but later realized that Sam was correct in her actions.

Lauren - I totally forgot about the conversation with Skip & Celia when he was in the hospital. It's surprising that Celia wanted to take life saving measures.