鈥淚t can never be too early, but it can be too late,鈥� notes Ted Hicks, a strong advocate for advance care planning education. Too often, many of us make plans for everything except the health care we would want if we were ever unable to speak for ourselves leaving our loved ones in very difficult situations. Advance care planning is an opportunity for individuals to explore their health goals, values and beliefs with loved ones so they get health care aligned with their preferences if this occurs.鈥�
鈥淲hether you are young or young at heart, now is the time for you to make or review your advance care plan to make sure your voice is heard and your loved ones have the confidence to speak on your behalf about the health care you would want if you are unable to speak for yourself,鈥� notes Joyce Kuhn, a semi-retired critical care nurse, who now facilitates advance care planning workshops for the Comox Valley Hospice Society. 鈥淲e know dying is not the easiest subject to talk about, but there鈥檚 a 100 per cent chance that it鈥檚 going to happen to you. Imagine, one day, without any warning, you find yourself in a hospital in a life-threatening situation, unable to communicate. Who would speak for you and make health care decisions on your behalf? We never know when our circumstances might unexpectedly change.鈥�
You are cordially invited to learn more about advance care planning introductory workshops on Saturday, Oct. 28, or Monday, Nov. 13, from 1-3 p.m. at the Berwick Comox Valley, 1825 Comox Ave., Comox.
Advance care planning is a process of reflection and communication, a time for you to reflect on your values and wishes, and to let others know your future health and personal care preferences in the event that you become incapable of consenting to or refusing treatment or other care.
Advance care planning means having conversations with family and friends and designating a representative 鈥� the person you want speak for you if you cannot speak for yourself.
It may also include writing down your wishes, and may involve talking with healthcare providers and financial and legal professionals.
You may never need your advance care plan 鈥� but if you do, you鈥檒l be glad that it鈥檚 there and that you have had these conversations, to make sure that your voice is heard and your loved ones can speak on your behalf when you cannot speak for yourself.
To register for the workshop or access other advance care planning information, contact the Comox Valley Hospice Society at 250-339-5533 or reception@comoxhospice.com
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