Apr 29, 2005 — When people talk about living with disabilities, one of the top priorities is independence. But what happens when a person's medical condition takes them beyond the point where they can make important decisions? Perhaps they're in a coma. Perhaps their ability to think and reason is impaired. The Terry Schiavo case showed how controversial - and how bitter - that moment can be for families. At a seminar this week in Saranac Lake, an expert on medical law talked about strategies for maintaining control, even in the worst of circumstances. Brian Mann has our story.