It’s that time of year again – the days are longer, the flowers are starting to bloom, and we’re itching to tackle those spring cleaning projects! While we’re decluttering our homes, let’s not forget another important task: reviewing our healthcare wishes. It might not be as exciting as scrubbing the fridge, but trust us, it’s incredibly worthwhile.

Recently, I spoke with a young man who had to make the difficult decision to remove his father from life support after an accident. His father never shared his wishes about end-of-life care, and this man has been left feeling an immense burden of guilt ever since. It’s a heavy weight to carry, even though he knows there was no chance of recovery. With a few conversations and simple documents, we can prevent this kind of anguish for our loved ones.

We understand that talking about end-of-life decisions or medical treatments can feel uncomfortable. However, it’s a gift you give yourself and your loved ones. Imagine if something unexpected happens, and you’re unable to speak for yourself. Wouldn’t you want your family to know with certainty what kind of care you’d want?

Here’s a quick guide for thinking through your options:

• Your Beliefs: Do you have religious or cultural preferences that should guide your healthcare? What matters most to you? Is independence and remaining at home a priority? Would you want all possible life-saving measures or focus more on comfort?
• Your Preferences: Be specific! Think about whether you want CPR in case your heart stops? Would you be comfortable with a ventilator temporarily? What are your thoughts about organ donation?
• Your Voice: Choose someone you absolutely trust to make decisions for you, if you are not able to. Talk to this person about your values and what kind of life you’d consider worth living.
• Go Deeper: Get even more specific and consider how you feel about pain management. Would you consider amputation if it meant saving your life? There are no wrong answers, just what’s right for you.

With National Healthcare Decisions Day (April 16th) just around the corner, it’s the perfect reminder to formalize your wishes. Now is a good time for you to get started. If you need help, we are here to assist you with the legalities. We will make sure it’s all done correctly, giving both you and your loved ones peace of mind.

Remember, tackling your healthcare wishes is the ultimate act of self-care. By doing so, you will ensure your voice is always heard, no matter what the future may bring. If you need help with the process, please reach out to our office for guidance and support. Call us at 724 841 1393 or email info@sechlerlawfirm.com.