A Steelers Win highlights end of life preparedness

Live How You Like, Leave How You Like

Dear Friends,

Although I myself am a Giants fan, the rest of my house consists of Steelers Fans. If you caught the game on Sunday, you know it was a true nail-biter—ultimately won because of a last-minute mistake by the other team. While my family was grateful for the win, the ending was a powerful reminder of how quickly things can change and how much hinges on preparation (and, apparently, scoring touchdowns instead of field goals). When plans fall apart or things happen that you can’t control, the outcome can shift in an instant. In life, especially near the end of life, waiting until the final moments can leave decisions in the hands of circumstance—or others—rather than reflecting what truly matters to you.

That’s why, in the coming year, our work is focused on helping people prepare ahead of time, no matter what happens. We’re creating more opportunities for honest, thoughtful conversations about end of life; expanding awareness and education about medical aid in dying and other options for dying; and offering additional presentations and resources to help individuals document their wishes clearly and confidently. We’re also growing our volunteer opportunities so more people can help support this work and ensure no one has to navigate these decisions alone.

If you haven’t already begun thinking about your own end of life wishes, now is your nudge (tush push in football talk!) to start thinking about it. And know that we are here to walk with you as you do it. We are going to be your thought partners, cheerleaders, mentors and guides. We look forward to working with you!

Sincerely,
Mandi Zucker, LSW, CT
Executive Director

Ask Us Anything

Q: I have an idea what I want my end of life to look like. What do I do next?

A: Having conversations with family and friends is an important way to make sure they understand your values around quality of life. Documenting these values is important, but conversations with trusted people gives them a broader understanding than simply writing down possible scenarios (you can’t possibly think of every scenario at the end of life). Completing a health care proxy and appointing someone to be your healthcare agent to make decisions for you if you no longer can do it yourself will best ensure that your values will be respected.

If you have a question you’d like answered, send it here!