I had several patients lately that were blindsided with the new terminal diagnosis. Up to this hospital stay, they were happy, supposedly healthy and worry-free people. In just a few days their life changed, and their life expectancy was only a few months! I found myself in a dilemma about discussing my own mortality with my parents and children. I questioned myself about what are my "last wishes"?
What surprised me the most it was how I felt uncomfortable discussing death and terminal diagnosis with my patients and families. I never had official palliative or hospice training. I realized I need to get "better acquainted" with this topic that no one seems to like talking about.
I wanted to know what my parents wish and what life-saving measures they wish to pursue.
Wow, what a challenging task that was. First, my dad, who is 82 years old stated,"It is too early for me to think about it!!!!" He declined to even say word "death." I found that very strange..... 😳
On the other hand, my mother who happened to be 15 years younger, at the ripe age of 68 was ready to make final arrangements and was very open about talking about the "end of life decisions."
It made me more aware of how individuals view discussions about death and final arrangements. It appears like we plan the birthdays, baby showers, weddings, graduations, and then we never plan funerals. No, maybe I said it wrong! Majority of people do not plan "funerals. "
What do you think?
No comments:
Post a Comment