Advancements in MRI technology using contrast (MRA) to show activity in the brain is increasingly being used. Families have to demand it before the Neurologist (the Doctor that declares "brain death") declares the patient "brain dead."
Went through this with my younger brother in August 2012 when he had a massive aneurysm at the point where the brain stem connects to the brain. His aneurysm was genetic in nature, meaning my older sister, my youngest brother and I received immediate MRI/MRA's to determine if we were walking time-bomb's ourselves.
I wouldn't wish the experience we went through on anyone. Those who haven't been through it really have no business criticizing others for the decisions they had to make.
I don't remember how old I was when I made the decision, but as far back as I can remember, I've always known that murder is wrong. By the time I had the opportunity to okay the killing of my husband after his stroke, the decision had already been made.
Living with the consequences of that decision hasn't always been easy, but when it gets especially hard, it helps to be reminded that I could have made a decision that's even harder to live with.
It's been especially stressful lately, and last night it came to a head. After crying myself to sleep last night, I woke up this morning feeling nothing but negative emotions. Despair. Guilt. Frustration.
Thank you for reminding me that it could be so much worse. I could have decided to avoid all this unpleasantness, at the expense of my husband's life, and my soul.