I am stunned at the anger directed at one possible provision in health reform: the inclusion of a voluntary procedure for seniors that would inform family and health professional as to how they want to be helped as their lives near the end.

The concept was widely explored two decades ago, although the wise logic of cost savings is now a more obvious consideration than it was then.

I remember in 1991 gratefully attending a church-sponsored seminar on end-of-life issues conducted by our parish nurse. Sensitive, but frank, discussion occurred about terminal illness, hospice care and advice to medical personnel about procedures we would and would not want to undergo.

I was motivated to prepare a living will, to designate a medical power of attorney and to list medical directives for care givers.

The process involved phone discussions with my children who live hundreds of miles away and a conversation with my primary-care physician. It was a reassuring and comforting experience.

I had no idea I was participating in an evil death panel that would eventually "pull the plug" on grandpa.

Ralph L. Smith

Bloomington