“It’s never too early”: Marie shares why planning ahead matters
Marie has lived in Brisbane’s southeast corner for all of her 86 years. She’s seen the world change in countless ways, but one thing she believes should never be left to chance is planning for future health care.
Marie’s passion for advance care planning (ACP) comes from her own family experience. “My parents never talked about what they wanted at the end of their lives,” she recalls. “When we raised the subject, it was pushed aside. It was taboo. And when the time came, it was so hard to make the decisions that had to be made.”
Without guidance, Marie and her siblings struggled. “I had three siblings who went three different ways. There was so much disagreement. It made the grieving process harder for everyone.”
That experience stayed with Marie. “I think a lot of people block it out and say, ‘This is not going to happen.’ But it will. And if you don’t plan, it leaves a huge burden on your family.”
Learning from the past
Determined to do things differently, Marie and her husband Gavin made their wishes clear well before they needed care. “We sat around the kitchen table when we were well and fit and talked about everything. We filled in the advance care planning forms together and spoke with our doctor. Then we called the children in and told them, ‘No debate, nothing, that’s the way it is.’”
Marie says those conversations brought peace of mind. “When Gavin passed away in 2020, everything was in place. It was peaceful and relaxing because I knew everything was under control. I could just be with him. He went very peacefully, and I was able to spend time with him right to the end.”
Why planning matters
Marie believes advance care planning is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. “It takes so much responsibility out of their hands. They don’t have to guess what you would want. They don’t have to carry that burden.”
She also stresses that planning isn’t just for older people. “It’s never too early. Life can change in an instant. Talk to your family, talk to your doctor, and get it down in writing.”
Today, Marie has her own ACP documents in place and feels reassured. “I’ve got everything sorted. When my time comes, I’ll be happy to go because I know my wishes are clear.”
Start the conversation today
Advance care planning helps ensure your values and preferences guide your future health care, even if you can’t speak for yourself:
- Find out where to get started, visit our website
- For free advice or to order a starter pack, visit our website or call the Advance Care Planning Australia Advisory Line 1300 208 582.
- Watch Marie’s story