Grandparents show the way in having the conversation
I had the conversation with my parent.
The example for communication had already been established, past experiences helped us to naturally have matter of fact conversations about emotionally difficult issues. My sisters and I were prepared to support and make decisions that we knew our parents would have made for themselves prior to becoming critically ill. In the face of medical crises, medical care teams commented on our family’s clear thinking and unity in decision making, in the midst of unthinkable circumstances.
It was a devastating time; looking back, I realize that navigating their end of life care as well as we possibly could was a tribute to our parents, and to our grandparents. To offer advice to other families, don’t be afraid to have these conversations with your loved ones before it’s too late.