It was encouraging to hear the advance care planning talk arranged by Interior Health, although it was poorly attended.
Terminal illness or sudden death often fall upon us without any warning, leaving us in state of confusion, disbelief and heartache.
We are fortunate here in Penticton to have some resources such as the Bereavement Resource Centre on Martin Street and the Hospice House up on Carmi, both of which can assist us in alleviating our despair and sadness.
Now we are encouraged to do advance planning so that family and friends as well as our doctor will know how to best help with decisions for ourselves or loved ones at this critical time.
It is important to talk with your doctor so that he can be aware of your wishes ahead of crises when they occur. Once you have an advance care plan you will feel less anxious, and more information can be obtained at Health 8-1-1, as well as through your local health centre.
I do feel it was unfortunate that this past meeting with so many professionals on stage had such poor attendance due to lack of notice or publication ahead.
There are a great number of older people in this area who need and would welcome this information, and surely through networking as well as involving the various senior centres this information will be available to everyone.
Rae Fowler
Penticton
