Ultimately, it's about the individual, his and her family, and the quality of life the person will have if he or she should survive a few more days, weeks or months. Even though Alice lived two more years, I still wonder if we did her a favor. Maybe just keeping her comfortable while the pneumonia took her would have been kinder.

I'm not judging anyone, including myself, about the decision made. It was made with love. She was a wonderful, kind, loving person. We wanted the best for her. What haunts me, at times, is that she was kept from a peaceful, natural death to live two additional, difficult years. Was this right? We certainly meant well. Once done, you can't go back. But I do question the decision.

For more information about Carol go to www.mindingourelders.com or www.mindingoureldersblogs.com.