A few years ago, our family faced a deeply challenging moment when our mother suffered a major stroke. As we rushed to the hospital, I found myself overwhelmed by urgent questions that seemed to come out of nowhere:

“Who is the Power of Attorney (POA)?”

“I am,” I managed to say, I am, though my mind was racing.

“Does she have a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order?”

“What medications is she currently taking?”

In that chaotic and frightening moment, my heart was heavy with stress and uncertainty. I was filled with anxiety, not knowing if my mother would pull through.

The topic of a DNR had never come up between us, and I couldn’t shake the worry that if I were asked to make such a decision, I might not honour her true wishes. I recalled her saying she never wanted to be kept alive by machines, but without anything in writing, I felt lost.

This experience made me realize how crucial it is for all of us to be prepared for unexpected situations. Are you ready for a moment like this? Do you have your important details documented and saved in a safe place?

Here are a few things that can help you and your loved ones during a difficult time:

 

Here are a few things that can help you and your loved ones during a difficult time:

- A copy of your birth certificate

- A copy of your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

- Information about your bank accounts and life insurance, along with contacts for those accounts

- The name and phone number of your lawyer

- Your doctor’s name and phone number

- A list of friends you would want to notify, including their phone numbers, should you experience a serious illness or passing

 

It's important to take a moment to think about these details—they can make such a difference for your family when they need it most. You’re not alone in this; taking these proactive steps can bring peace of mind to you and those you love.