My in-laws are very active in the lives of their grandchildren – attending soccer games, basketball games, dance recitals, school plays and birthday parties. Yet one of the most valuable traditions they have built with their grandchildren is a special trip. Each grandchild chooses a place they would like to visit, and then spend weeks, even months planning the "trip". Then the summer after their 9th grade year in school, the plan is finalized and the 4 - 6 day trip with Mimi & Papa all to their self begins. Even now the grandchildren who have 4 more years to wait for their turn are planning where they will go.

Each of us make decisions everyday, from simple ones to more complex choices. We plan ahead for events we expect to happen - vacations, weddings, birthday parties, reunions, a golf tournament and trips with grandchildren. Yet the one event that we are certain will take place - some of us never plan for it - the HEALTH CARE WE WANT TOWARD THE END OF OUR LIFE.

Not only has my in-laws created a memory their grandchildren will cherish forever, they have also left a gift that will make an impression on the lives of their children and grandchildren when they least expect it - they have completed their Advance Directives and communicated their wishes to each of their children. They have taken the "guess-work" out of a time when stress is overwhelming and replaced it with a peaceful, quality time they can spend with those they love, when they know there is not much time for anything else.

Begin now by finding out all you can about advance care planning through the information listed on this web site, other web sites, at your local library and by talking to your health care professional. Then leave your own gift of love.

- Cynthia Gouge, ©2005