The concept of a living will was first put forward by Louis Kustner in the year 1969. Available statistics indicate that less than a quarter of the American population has a living will. However, an overwhelming number of people have responded to the idea of having one created. This can be attributed to the awareness, interest and even outrage generated by the Teri Schiavo incident, which managed to occupy the front pages of newspapers across the country for several weeks. A controversy was created when the court passed the final verdict, ordering her life support systems to be removed. It has been argued that what happened to Teri Schiavo was unfair and that she should have had a say in her medical treatment. This event acted as an eye opener to several people.

The significance:

The significance of a living will cannot be underestimated. It acts as a custodian of a patient's self esteem while he or she is fighting a losing battle with a disease. It helps to relieve family members, who are already in an emotional turmoil, from the dilemma of making extremely difficult decisions for their near and dear ones who are suffering from an incurable disease. Differences of opinion among family and friends of a victim can lead to disputes and contribute to unpleasantness.

Living wills can also prove to be a blessing in disguise for the doctors. Very often, doctors find it hard to discuss with their patients the grave nature of their health or the slim chances of recovery. A living will helps to facilitate a smooth dialogue between both the parties.

A living will can be made keeping in mind both religious and financial considerations. It sometimes serves as the only connection between a person who is oblivious to the world around him and his caretakers.