John, I am sorry for your loss. Our health system is very complicated and very broken. It is almost impossible to die without incurring the many frustrations you describe. Imagine what would have happened if you weren’t there for your brother. Many people do not have advocates and as a society, we don’t talk about that.
I join others in sending condolences. Even when anticipated, loss is pretty darned awful. However, your article absolutely hit the nail on the head for me. I have been through this process with two family members, and I have been grateful each time that I knew their wishes, and that required paperwork was in place so that the whole process could move forward simply. I have made sure that ALMOST everything is in place for my husband and me, but I am also involved with a family friend who simply wishes not to discuss anything, leaving her family members unclear and unable to ensure that her passing will be as smooth as possible. We have not all been raised or educated to find comfort in discussing challenging issues, of which our final days and death certainly qualify. Your article was clear, powerful, and helpful. I plan to share it with family who will hopefully give some thought to their own deaths and their desire to have the process go well for their survivors. Thank you for sharing your experience and laying out the groundwork for others.
Dear John, I also sent condolences along with thanks for your thoughtful peace about a very important subject. Do you have any suggestions for resources which would guide preparation for end of life planning?
John, I am sorry for your loss. Our health system is very complicated and very broken. It is almost impossible to die without incurring the many frustrations you describe. Imagine what would have happened if you weren’t there for your brother. Many people do not have advocates and as a society, we don’t talk about that.
Very, very helpful. Thank you
I join others in sending condolences. Even when anticipated, loss is pretty darned awful. However, your article absolutely hit the nail on the head for me. I have been through this process with two family members, and I have been grateful each time that I knew their wishes, and that required paperwork was in place so that the whole process could move forward simply. I have made sure that ALMOST everything is in place for my husband and me, but I am also involved with a family friend who simply wishes not to discuss anything, leaving her family members unclear and unable to ensure that her passing will be as smooth as possible. We have not all been raised or educated to find comfort in discussing challenging issues, of which our final days and death certainly qualify. Your article was clear, powerful, and helpful. I plan to share it with family who will hopefully give some thought to their own deaths and their desire to have the process go well for their survivors. Thank you for sharing your experience and laying out the groundwork for others.
Dear John, I also sent condolences along with thanks for your thoughtful peace about a very important subject. Do you have any suggestions for resources which would guide preparation for end of life planning?