SPRINGFIELD -- Wednesday is National Healthcare Decisions Day. The Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association hopes a daylong event on Wednesday will help highlight the importance of advance healthcare decision-making.

Most people don't realize filling out a simple form - for free - can make things a lot easier when you and your family need it the most.

“I didn't want to be, if I was terminally ill, to carry on forever and suffer needlessly,” said Dave Ashley.

Ashley filled out a healthcare directive and assigned a power of attorney years ago. He only realized recently how important it is. His niece slipped into a coma and several family members had a dispute about what they should do next.

“At least you know ahead of time what your wishes are and you won't be at the mercy of the hospital or a relative with no clue what you want,” said Ashley.

“This is the most important document people need today and everyone over 18 needs one,” said attorney Diane Hansen.

Hansen says, without one, not only will your family not know what type of end-of-life care you would want but they also would be completely unable to make decisions for you without a court order.

“Let's say you're 21 and get in an accident. Your parents can't make decision unless you have a power of attorney in place,” said Hansen.

The documents are free and, Ashley says, essential.

“Life is uncertain. We don't know what will happen so it's better to have a plan than nothing,” he said.

On Wednesday, attorneys will assist individuals in the completion of healthcare directives all day. Stop by the Library Center, Library Station or Brentwood Library between 11 and 7.

If you'd like to fill out a healthcare power of attorney and directive for free in Missouri, click here.

To see a sample Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Arkansas, click here.