When a person is seriously ill, he/she should call for the priest to minister this wonderful sacrament. One need not be at death's door to receive the sacrament. Indeed, the sacrament is intended as part of the Church's healing ministry -- healing for body as well as for soul A condition which is so serious as to demand surgery with a general anesthetic is serious enough for a person to be anointed. Do not hesitate to call for the Pastor to minister this sacrament at every serious change in your condition.