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| Reenactment | Photo by Mikhail Nilov |
Life is full of unforeseen events, and as Jehovah's Witnesses, we aim to be prepared for any situation. While we trust in Jehovah, we also recognize the importance of taking practical steps to ensure our beliefs are respected during emergencies. Here are some practical ways to stay ready while honoring our commitment to our faith.
Staying Prepared for Emergencies with the DPA Card paired with a JW No Blood Keychain
One crucial step is to prayerfully and carefully fill out your Durable Power of Attorney (DPA) card, also known as the Advance Medical Directive. Baptized publishers can obtain a DPA card for themselves and an Identity Card for their minor children from the literature servant. Carrying the DPA card in your wallet or purse ensures that medical personnel are immediately aware of your healthcare choices, particularly regarding treatments like blood transfusions. Keeping a copy at home in an accessible place is also wise.
If You’re Expecting, Obtain Specialized Information
If you are pregnant, consider asking the elders for a copy of Information for Expectant Mothers. This document will help you make informed decisions about medical issues that may arise during pregnancy and childbirth, ensuring your choices align with your faith.
Inform Elders and Medical Personnel Before Procedures
If you require a medical procedure that may involve blood or a hospital stay, inform your local elders in advance. Let the hospital know that you would welcome a visit from a minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The elders can assist you by promptly contacting the Hospital Liaison Committee (HLC) on your behalf.
Understand the Role of the Elders and HLC
Elders can help you fill out your DPA card but will not make medical decisions for you or express personal views on matters of individual choice. When informed of a medical situation involving blood, they will contact the HLC. Brothers serving on the HLC are trained to help medical professionals understand our religious position regarding blood. They can discuss treatment strategies to avoid blood transfusions with your healthcare provider and, if needed, help you find a cooperative doctor.
Educate Yourself and Your Family
It's important to be prepared to explain to doctors why you accept or reject certain medical treatments. Consider watching the video How to Make Health-Care Decisions Regarding Blood to help you and your family be ready for medical emergencies involving blood. Regular family worship sessions on preparedness can help everyone feel more confident in handling unexpected situations while upholding their faith.
Practical Tools for Everyday Preparedness
This Blood transfusion alert accessory is perfect for attaching to your keys, purse, or your child’s backpack. Available in bronze with raised letters and nickel with engraved letters, it’s a durable and meaningful tool for everyday use. By carrying the JW No Blood keyring, you ensure that your convictions are known without needing to say a word.
---Being prepared is an expression of our love for Jehovah and respect for the life He has given us. By taking these practical steps, we can navigate emergencies with confidence, knowing we’ve done our part to honor our commitments. For more information on tools like the No blood transfusion keychain, you can visit Ministry Ideaz, a provider of resources designed with our community’s needs in mind.
A worldwide distributor of Jehovah’s Witnesses supplies, Ministry Ideaz offers a wide range of products, including practical items like the Advance medical directive keychain. Supporting our community for over two decades, Ministry Ideaz is dedicated to providing quality products that align with our values and support our ministry.
Source: mwb23 January p. 7
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