Several years ago, I knew two women, Sarah and Emily, both in their late sixties, who were diagnosed with breast cancer within weeks of each other. Despite their similar diagnoses, their experiences and approaches to treatment couldn’t have been more different.
Sarah was a retired teacher who lived alone in a cozy cottage by the seaside. She had always been independent and self-sufficient, enjoying quiet walks on the beach and tending to her garden. When she noticed a lump in her breast during a routine self-exam, she immediately went to her doctor for a check-up. The biopsy results confirmed her worst fears – stage 3 breast cancer.
Her doctor recommended aggressive chemotherapy followed by radiation therapy and surgery. Sarah listened attentively but calmly declined the treatment options. Instead, she chose to focus on maintaining her quality of life and finding peace and comfort in her remaining days. She spent her time surrounded by nature, painting seascapes, and writing letters to her loved ones. Sarah had made her peace with the diagnosis and was determined to live her life on her own terms.
On the other hand, there was Emily, a successful businesswoman who lived in the heart of the city with her husband and children. Emily was known for her vibrant personality, bustling social life, and love for adventure. When she received the news of her breast cancer diagnosis, she was devastated. She couldn’t fathom the thought of leaving her family behind and missing out on all the milestones yet to come.
Without hesitation, Emily embarked on an aggressive treatment plan, determined to fight the cancer with everything she had. She endured grueling chemotherapy sessions, numerous surgeries, and countless doctor appointments. Her calendar quickly filled up with medical appointments, leaving little time for anything else. Despite the physical and emotional toll of the treatment, Emily remained hopeful and optimistic, believing that she would overcome the disease and return to her normal life.
As the months passed, I witnessed the stark contrast between Sarah and Emily’s experiences. Sarah spent her days surrounded by peace and serenity, embracing the beauty of life despite her illness. In contrast, Emily’s life revolved around hospital visits, treatments, and endless medical interventions. While both women faced the same diagnosis, their choices and attitudes ultimately shaped the trajectory of their journeys.
In the end, Sarah passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones, having lived her life on her own terms. Emily, on the other hand, continued to battle the disease until the very end, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of living authentically and making choices that align with our values and priorities, especially in the face of adversity.
It’s essential to acknowledge that the end of life is an inevitable part of the human experience, a reality that cannot be denied. Just like any other major life event, it deserves careful consideration and planning to ensure that it aligns with your wishes and values.
Often, we cannot know what someone desires at the end of their life unless they communicate it to us. That’s why it’s crucial to take the time to reflect on your preferences, commit them to writing in advance directives, and share them with your trusted loved ones. Studies show that proper planning for end-of-life care can significantly enhance the quality of the journey, regardless of the specific circumstances.
At Guide2Care, LLC, we understand the importance of proactive planning for end-of-life care. We offer assistance and support to help you complete advance directives, ensuring that your wishes are documented and respected when the time comes.
