Most people buy roses, which are dead within a week, or chocolate, which is gone by breakfast. If you want to show your partner true devotion, give them the legal authority to keep your life from falling apart if you're in the hospital.
There's a common myth that if you're married, your spouse can automatically sign for you or make medical decisions. Incorrect. If you're in a car accident and don't have a Durable Power of Attorney or a Health Care Surrogate, your sweetheart might have to go to court for a guardianship just to pay your mortgage or talk to your doctor.
Nothing kills the mood like a court hearing to prove you're incompetent.
Action plan
- Check your health care directive. Does it accurately reflect your wishes ("keep the machines on" vs. "let me go peacefully")?
- Verify that your partner has a durable Power of Attorney.
- Book a 15-minute "Love & Law" checkup with me to make sure your spouse isn't locked out of your life when they need to be in it most.