From routine surgery for a broken ankle to intensive care and life support within seventy-two hours. Bela Maranhas, a strong-willed business woman, found herself in precisely this position, clinging to life via an oxygen mask for an ailment doctors could not identify, yet refusing to be placed on a ventilator. Bela's husband, Mike, knew his wife strongly feared suffering brain damage due to previous trauma. He also knew she didn't want him in a position where he would be responsible for potentially taking her off life support. After a long, emotional discussion, Bela reluctantly submitted to artificial respiration. She did so for Mike, their love, their marriage . . . but for two weeks only and not a second more. Mike promised to honor Bela's