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Talking Frankly about Living with Advanced Cancer

Cancer | Last Active: Jun 18, 2023 | Replies (508)

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@burrkay

@ibern and @IndianaScott
As for “end of life” preparation, assuming the usual legal “mumbo jumbo” has been done, most of us overlook the obvious.
A friend who lost her husband unexpectedly, came up with a “Survivors List”. It helps account for those obvious day to day things that we take for granted; but fail to think what those left behind will encounter once we are gone. If your spouse pays the bills, where are the records kept? Put it in the list! What are the utility shut off requirements for winter? Add to the list! Who to contact for the yard care? Add to the list...etc., etc.,
We have done a pretty comprehensive “Survivors List” and placed a copy in our safe deposit box at the bank, provided a copy for our kids and our financial planner and lawyer.
If you would like a redacted generic list, let me know and I will be happy to put one together and send it.
Best of luck to all of us who are dealing with serious health issues...thank God we found Mayo Connect where we can share our anxieties and experiences with others!

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Replies to "@ibern and @IndianaScott As for “end of life” preparation, assuming the usual legal “mumbo jumbo” has..."

Good point @burrkay My father created what he called his 'Just In Case' book. It was a three-ring binder with all this type of information in it. I copied that idea and added a few modern touches, which my dad never had to worry about, such as passwords that might be needed, what accounts are autopay, where all my electronic photos are backed up, etc.

I, too, gave a copy to each of our adult children along with a copy of my POAs, et. and have a copy in our home (where they know where it is) so they can have unfettered access to it since it also includes my last wishes. Plus this way I have one copy easily accessible,which I can update as passwords change, accounts close, companies change names, etc.

I agree --- great to be able to share here on Connect!

Strength, courage, and peace!