Being Mortal, by Atul Gawande
I was directed to Being Mortal by my son. Shortly after his mother passed he asked me to read the book so I could prepare myself and him for what will eventual come for me.
As Dr. Gawande points out we are all mortal beings. He is a surgeon who was trained to treat illness and frailty and fight for life to the bitter end. His thoughts on seeing terminal ill suffer have led him to believe the medical community in many ways is failing the terminally ill. He has several suggestions on how to improve the quality of life for those of us dealing with our end of life issues.
One of his major points is helping determine what is important to the individual at the end of their life. I write this blog as a reference for my son, so he can make decisions based on my desires. To start, I am currently in relatively good health and of a sound mind.
What is a good life, According to Neil L Brackley.
I’ve enjoyed and hope to continue to enjoy my life. Based on my physical condition, I’ve outlived original expectations for longevity all ready. I hope to continue in the trend.
For me to enjoy life I need in no particular order to be able to do the following:
- Visiting family and natural and historic wonders is a fulfilling life.
- I want to be able to drive myself for as long as I’m not a danger to others. If it becomes clear that I am no longer a safe driver, Nicholas you have my blessing to take my driver’s license and my keys. But please make arrangements for me to continue getting to the market and doing my own shopping..
- Cooking is one of my greatest joy’s. I want to cook for myself as long as I can remember or have assistance turning the stove off. I’d rather have assistance in the kitchen, then not be able to fix my own meals.
- Watching sports on TV is a joy. Competition has always been a part of my life.
- Playing card games and in particular on-line bridge makes a good day for me.
My mind is currently sharp but dulling. If I can not do these things, I’ll enjoy life.
I do not under any circumstances consider life in a nursing home to be fulfilling. I’d want a living arrangement which encourages my participating in meal preparation and decision making.
How to make decisions concerning health care.
Between the ages of 15-35 decisions were made to not have a back operation. In my 30’s the answer revolved around whether post operation would I be able to play tennis. While I did not attempt to research the answer, I never received a positive response. In retrospect the answer to not have back surgery was the correct.
The same types of questions should be asked prior to any medical intervention in the future. The list above should be a guide. If the answers are not clear, than I would prefer to forgo any procedure.
Do I want my life to extended? If it involves being able to attend a major event in your life, the answer is YES, so long as I’m mentally there and would be an asset to the proceedings.
Final Resting Place.
I’m in the process of evaluating Eternal Reefs. I like the concept and expect to make a decision in the near future. What it entails.
My body is to be cremated. I’d like my ashes used by Eternal Reefs to make a reef block. They provide a time and place for the actual making of the reef block. Friends and family are able to attend a weekend to complete the block. Kay’s ashes should also be included and her family invited to the weekend.
This process would be a celebration and give all involved a chance to say good bye.
The Immediate Future.
I’m currently able to make these decisions for myself, but as we found out a few years back. That can change in a instant. My hope is that this blog entry provides assistance to you in the future.
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