Advance Care Planning

Compassionate, Personalized Planning for the Life You Live

When Margaret had her stroke, everything happened quickly.

If Margaret Had Not Planned Ahead

In the hospital, doctors asked urgent questions. Could Margaret tolerate aggressive treatment? Would she want to be kept alive on machines? Who should make decisions if the family disagreed?

Her loved ones stood in the hallway, stunned and exhausted. Each person remembered something Margaret had once said, a comment here, a feeling there — but nothing was written down. Fear mixed with guilt as they tried to decide what was “right.” Conversations became tense. Time felt rushed. Instead of sitting at her bedside, they were forced into making decisions they never wanted to make.

No one knew for sure what Margaret would have wanted and that uncertainty stayed with them long after.

Because Margaret Did Have an Advance Care Plan

In another version of that same day, Margaret’s family still felt scared. The situation was still serious. But this time, there was guidance.

Margaret had taken the time to talk about what mattered to her. She had chosen someone she trusted to speak for her. Her wishes were written down and accessible. When doctors asked questions, her daughter didn’t have to guess. She knew what comfort meant to her mother and where the line was between treatment and suffering.

Instead of conflict and doubt, there was clarity. Instead of guilt, there was confidence. The family was able to focus on being present with Margaret — holding her hand, sharing quiet moments, and trusting that her care reflected her values.

Advance care planning doesn’t remove grief or difficulty. What it removes is uncertainty.

Facing the “what ifs” isn’t about fear — it’s about clarity, dignity, and love. Advance care planning isn’t a single form or a checkbox; it’s a gift you give yourself and your family: a roadmap for future medical care that aligns with your values, priorities, and the way you want to be cared for — even if you can’t speak for yourself.

Close-up of a floral bouquet with pink and white flowers and green foliage, placed on a table next to an open notebook with a pen and pencil on the pages.

 What Advance Care Planning Is

Advance care planning is a conversation with your future self. It includes:

Reflecting on what matters most to you in life and in care
Choosing who will speak for you if you are unable to make decisions
Making thoughtful choices about medical treatment, comfort, and quality of life
Putting your wishes into legally valid documents so your voice is honored

This process offers peace of mind. Your loved ones won’t have to guess, and you remain at the center of your care — no matter what happens.

Why It Matters

Without a clear plan in place, families are often left facing difficult decisions during moments of stress, fear, or crisis. Default medical responses may not reflect your wishes, and loved ones may struggle with uncertainty or disagreement.

Advance care planning protects your autonomy. It reduces emotional burden on those you love and helps ensure your care reflects who you are, not just what is medically possible.

What We Do Together

Advance care planning is not rushed or clinical here. It is a supported, thoughtful process - one that honors your story and your choices.

Clarifying Your Values

We begin by exploring what matters most to you. This includes your beliefs, priorities, and what quality of life means in your own words.

Choosing Your Healthcare Voice

You’ll identify a trusted person to speak on your behalf if you cannot. I help guide these conversations, so expectations are clear and everyone feels supported.

Completing the Right Documents

Advance care planning includes more than a living will. Together, we create a comprehensive and personalized set of documents, which may include:

  • Advance healthcare directives

  • Durable power of attorney for healthcare

  • HIPAA authorization

  • Guidance around POLST or MOST forms when appropriate

  • Written expressions of personal wishes and preferences

I help ensure your documents are clear, legally valid, and reflective of your values — not just filled out but truly understood.

Supporting Meaningful Conversations

I offer guidance for sharing your wishes with loved ones and healthcare providers, so your plan is known, respected, and honored when it matters most.

Ongoing Support

Life changes, and so may your wishes. I remain available to review, update, and revisit your plan as your circumstances evolve.

Your Plan, Your Voice

Advance care planning is not about focusing on death. It is about living with intention and ensuring your care reflects your values in every season of life.

By planning ahead, you preserve your voice and give your loved one’s clarity, confidence, and peace — even during difficult moments.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re ready to start or even just thinking about it, I’m here to walk with you. Together, we can create a plan that feels grounded, respectful, and truly yours.

Schedule a consultation to begin advance care planning with compassionate guidance and support.

 FAQs on Advance Care Planning

  • No. Advance care planning is for any adult who wants their wishes respected. Accidents and sudden illness can happen at any age, and having a plan brings peace of mind no matter where you are in life.

  • Advance care planning is more than just forms. It includes clarifying your values, choosing a healthcare decision-maker, having conversations with loved ones, and completing documents that reflect your wishes. These can include:

    • Advance Healthcare Directive / Living Will: Documents your wishes about medical care if you can’t speak for yourself.

    • Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: Names a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.

    • POLST / MOST (Physician/Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): Medical orders that guide emergency and hospital care based on your wishes.

    • DNR (Do Not Resuscitate): An order specifying whether you want CPR if your heart stops.

    • HIPAA Release: Allows your loved one’s access to your medical information when needed.

  • Not usually. Most advance care planning forms are legally valid when completed according to state requirements. I help you ensure your documents are correct, clear, and aligned with your values — without giving legal advice.

  • That’s normal. Many people start with uncertainty. I guide you through exploring your values and options at your own pace, so your choices feel thoughtful, not rushed.

  • They can be, if you want them to be. Facilitated conversations often reduce stress and conflict, helping everyone understand and support your wishes.

  • Yes. Your advance care plan is meant to evolve as your health, priorities, or relationships change. Documents can be updated whenever needed.

  • You’ll have clear, organized documents and guidance on sharing them with healthcare providers and loved ones. I’m available for future updates or to revisit your plan as circumstances change.