Today's editorial is a reminder that one of the most loving things we can do in our lives is prepare for our own death. Just in case there are life-and-death decisions to be made when we are incapable of making them, let everyone know in advance what your wishes are. Read the editorial by clicking here.
I read once that we shouldn't die with our words left inside us. Write.
Have you settled this touchy topic with your family in a good way? How did you do it? How did the conversation go? Did anyone disagree with you? If your family handles this issue in a healthy way, share your advice.
My father is 84. He's had a couple of small strokes and a heart attack. Other than that he's in pretty good health. He has already arranged what he's needed to arrange and has spoken about his wishes. This puts us, his children, at ease because if he had not done so years ago, it would be a very difficult and uncomfortable discussion to bring up at this point.
I would recommend bringing it up with the family while it's something that's still a long way off. This keeps it from seeming too real and uncomfortable. Bringing up your own wishes is a good way to bring up the subject.
And be sure to fill out an Advance Directive. Eliminate the fighting, not to mention the emotional struggles, the family members go through in such an unfortunate circumstance.
People dont want to talk about these things because they don't want to think it could happen to them. As someone who had a massive stroke at 40 yrs old IO can say it can happen to you. My family has talked about even before I had the stroke. I told them if I need something for a couple days to help me then ok but not any longer. I feel if God wants me to breath he will make me breathe and be my respirator. I do npot want to lay in a bed for years with my bodsy and muscles detereorating so that I am a burden if I do wake up. I put everything in Gods hands and he has been there for me so I will keep up with that plan.