Supporting you... Advance care planning and planning for the future.
Talking about death can feel difficult, but it does not make it happen sooner. These conversations can help you and the people around you understand what matters most, and feel more prepared for important decisions about future care, including where and how you would like to be cared for at the end of your life.
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with a terminal or life-limiting illness, our team is here to support you. We can help you start these conversations at a pace that feels right for you.
If you would like to talk or need support, you are welcome to drop in to our Wellbeing Drop-in. This takes place every Thursday at the Hospice’s Sunflower Centre, and you do not need an appointment or any previous connection to St Leonard’s. Everyone is very welcome.
A conversation starter might include…
“What matters to me at the end of life is…”
Sharing this “what matters to me” sentence with those around you can be a helpful way to begin open and gentle conversations.
It may help to have very honest conversations with those people who are close to you;
“I don’t want to die yet but if I become so sick I might not survive…”
“I do/do not want to be at home.”
“I want family to be with me/stay away.”
“If a ventilator could save my life I would/wouldn’t want it.”
“I understand that when my heart eventually stops, CPR may not work and I would not want it.”
“Remember I love you. Thank you. I forgive our misunderstandings and hope you do too.”
“Now put the kettle on!”
