Been handling this "style" of family emergency for the last 1.5 years, on-and-off unexpectedly and with multiple family members. Sending love to Rebecca and all other people experiencing this. I don't have answers, just compassion and a listening ear to offer.
I'm an oncology and hospice nurse and I second Being Mortal, it's excellent and engaging and helped inspire and shape my entry into this discipline.
Also, Extreme Measures: Finding a Better Path to the End by Jessica Nutik Zitter and That Good Night: Life and Medicine in the Eleventh Hour by Sunita Puri. Both of those deal with end of life care and decisions, which might not specifically be your situation, but they speak to the kinds of questions and difficult discussions that every family needs to have and that we all should consider ourselves. Everyone always believes they have more time for the conversations than they do, no matter their situation. The time is always now.
As someone who has recently navigated a family emergency of the kind you might be facing, I send good thoughts your way. And I echo your suggestion to have those difficult conversations with individuals close to you about establishing those much needed documents, including a medical and financial power of attorney, living will, DNR, etc.
Having you guys in my ears has always been a comfort and welcome distraction, but especially these past 2 months as I’ve navigated uncharted waters. So, thank you!
... wish you peace during this time. This book - Being Mortal - Medicine and what Matter at the End - was a gift to me when we were in a similar situation... how to honor those we care about and take care of them how they wish to be cared for ...
Our local Medical Center has an Advanced care planning educator. He was quite happy to come share his knowledge with our faith community. That included how to talk to family! He also brought all the forms needed. Wonderful resource.
Been handling this "style" of family emergency for the last 1.5 years, on-and-off unexpectedly and with multiple family members. Sending love to Rebecca and all other people experiencing this. I don't have answers, just compassion and a listening ear to offer.
I'm an oncology and hospice nurse and I second Being Mortal, it's excellent and engaging and helped inspire and shape my entry into this discipline.
Also, Extreme Measures: Finding a Better Path to the End by Jessica Nutik Zitter and That Good Night: Life and Medicine in the Eleventh Hour by Sunita Puri. Both of those deal with end of life care and decisions, which might not specifically be your situation, but they speak to the kinds of questions and difficult discussions that every family needs to have and that we all should consider ourselves. Everyone always believes they have more time for the conversations than they do, no matter their situation. The time is always now.
As someone who has recently navigated a family emergency of the kind you might be facing, I send good thoughts your way. And I echo your suggestion to have those difficult conversations with individuals close to you about establishing those much needed documents, including a medical and financial power of attorney, living will, DNR, etc.
Having you guys in my ears has always been a comfort and welcome distraction, but especially these past 2 months as I’ve navigated uncharted waters. So, thank you!
I’m excited to follow on Instagram!
... wish you peace during this time. This book - Being Mortal - Medicine and what Matter at the End - was a gift to me when we were in a similar situation... how to honor those we care about and take care of them how they wish to be cared for ...
Oh, that's a good reminder! I loved the book the year it came out and am probably due for a re-read.
Our local Medical Center has an Advanced care planning educator. He was quite happy to come share his knowledge with our faith community. That included how to talk to family! He also brought all the forms needed. Wonderful resource.
Sending love to you and your family 💗