Thoughtful Planning

Thoughtful Planning

By Santiago and Honey BuenoEducation
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Thoughtful Planning episodes

  • Lessons from Extremis: Why Clear Directives Matter S2EP34

    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago build upon the topics from the last two episodes by exploring the emotional and logistical challenges of advanced care planning through a visual lens. Inspired by the powerful Netflix documentary Extremis, they discuss how watching scenarios play out can help individuals and families better understand and prepare for healthcare decisions. This episode serves as a companion to prior episodes, offering a visual alternative for those who find it helpful in processing complex scenarios.

    Disclaimer:

    The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning.

    Essential Question:

    How can a visual representation like the documentary Extremis help individuals and families make more informed advanced care decisions?

    Episode Highlights:

    • What is Extremis?
    • Extremis is a 24-minute Netflix documentary that captures the real-life challenges faced by families and healthcare providers in the ICU. Honey and Santiago discuss its emotional depth and relevance to advanced care planning.
    • Why Visual Learning Matters:
    • This episode focuses on how seeing real-life scenarios, like those in Extremis, can complement advice from resources and discussions covered in previous episodes. It provides a deeper understanding for visual learners who may need to see the emotional and logistical impacts of unclear directives.
    • Key Lessons from the Film:
    • The emotional toll on families forced to make life-or-death decisions without guidance.
    • The role of advanced care directives in easing the decision-making process.
    • The importance of balancing quality of life with quantity of time.
    • Personal Stories:
    • Honey and Santiago share their own experiences, including Santiago’s father’s passing, which was made smoother by clear directives from his mother.
    • Steps to Take Today:
    • Reflect on your own values: What matters most to you in a healthcare crisis?
    • Have honest conversations with loved ones and healthcare providers.
    • Use resources like Five Wishes or state-specific advance directive forms to formalize your decisions.
    • Share your directives with your family and register them with your healthcare provider or hospital.

      • Advice from Honey and Santiago:

      • Honey: "Don’t let your family guess. Make your wishes known to remove guilt and reduce stress."
      • Santiago: "Having clear directives is a gift to your loved ones. It provides clarity and comfort when they need it most."

        Conclusion:

        This episode underscores the value of proactive planning. Watching Extremis can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations with loved ones. For those who prefer visual representations, this documentary can help guide discussions that complement advice shared in prior episodes. Take the first step today to document your wishes and share them with those who need to know.

        Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

        • Extremis on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80106307
        • Five Wishes: https://www.fivewishes.org/
        • AARP Advance Directives by State: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/
        • Related Thoughtful Planning Podcast Episodes:
        • S2EP32: If You’re Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You?
        • S2EP33: Planning for Dementia and Mental Health

          • Connect with Thoughtful Planning:

          • Website: Legacy Toolkit
          • Facebook: Legacy Toolkit
          • LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit


            • Thank You for Listening!

            Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. 



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            17 min
          • Planning for Dementia and Mental Health - S2EP33

            In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago explore the vital importance of planning for dementia and mental health challenges. From understanding psychiatric advance directives to crafting dementia-specific care plans, they provide actionable steps and resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. Join them as they share stories, tools, and insights to navigate these critical aspects of end-of-life planning.

            Disclaimer:

            The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning.

            Essential Question:

            What steps can you take today to plan for a future where dementia or mental health challenges may affect your ability to make decisions?

            Episode Highlights:

            • Psychiatric Advance Directives: What they are, why they matter and how to create one tailored to your needs.
            • Includes details about the Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment (DMHT) and resources for other states.
            • Dementia Directives: How these documents help guide care during mild, moderate and severe stages of dementia.
            • Includes tips for incorporating these preferences into existing advanced directives.
            • Real-Life Scenarios: Honey and Santiago share stories and scenarios to illustrate the emotional and practical impact of planning.
            • Tools and Resources: Interactive tools like Compassion and Choices’ Dementia Values and Priorities Tool and the Conversation Project’s caregiver guide.
            • Choosing Advocates: Why selecting the right advocate is crucial and how to approach this sensitive conversation.


              • Advice for Listeners:

              • Start Early: Planning before a diagnosis allows for clearer decisions and reduces stress on yourself and loved ones.
              • Communicate Openly: Discuss your wishes with family and chosen advocates to ensure they understand your preferences.
              • Review and Update Regularly: Keep your directives up-to-date as situations and preferences evolve.

                Conclusion:

                Planning for dementia and mental health challenges may feel overwhelming, but it’s a critical step in securing your future and providing peace of mind for loved ones. These conversations are tough but essential. Take the first step today to ensure your wishes are respected.

                Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

                • National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives: https://nrc-pad.org/states/
                • Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/regulations/forms/advance-directives/declaration-mental-health-treatment-dmht
                • Compassion and Choices Dementia Values and Priorities Tool: https://compassionandchoices.org/dementia-values-tool/
                • Dementia Directive: https://dementia-directive.org/
                • The Conversation Project, Guide for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's/Other Dementias: https://theconversationproject.org/

                  Connect with Thoughtful Planning:

                  • Website: Legacy Toolkit
                  • Facebook: Legacy Toolkit
                  • LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit

                    • Thank You for Listening!

                    Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review.

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                    19 min
                  • If You're Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You? S2EP32

                    Episode Summary:

                    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago tackle a critical but often overlooked topic: Advance Care Directives. Together, they break down essential healthcare documents like living wills, medical power of attorney, and DNR orders, while sharing practical advice to empower you to take charge of your healthcare decisions. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, this episode equips listeners with the tools needed to communicate their healthcare wishes effectively.

                    Disclaimer:

                    The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your specific situation.

                    Essential Question:

                    What steps can we take to ensure that our healthcare decisions are honored, especially during critical moments when we may not be able to make them ourselves?

                    Episode Highlights:

                    • What Are Advance Care Directives?
                    • Learn how these legal documents communicate your healthcare preferences and provide clarity for your family, friends, and healthcare providers.
                    • Common Healthcare Documents Explained:

                      • • Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates (Living Will): A living will that outlines your preferences for life-sustaining treatments.

                      • Medical Power of Attorney: Designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.

                      • Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate (OOH-DNR) Order: Specifies your wishes about resuscitation attempts.

                      • Note: The documents mentioned above are specific to Texas. Please consult your state’s requirements for equivalent forms.
                      • Practical Tips for Completing Advance Care Directives:

                        • • Use state-provided resources for forms and guidance.

                        • Ensure documents are notarized and witnessed according to state laws.

                        • Share your plans with your advocates and keep copies accessible.

                        • Digital Storage Options:
                        • Tools like My Directives and MedicAlert bracelets offer convenient ways to store and share your documents.
                        • Addressing Family Conversations:
                        • Discussing healthcare decisions with loved ones can be challenging but is vital to avoid confusion during emergencies.
                        • Recommended Resources:

                          • • Five Wishes: A comprehensive tool for discussing and documenting healthcare decisions.

                          • Emory Center’s Critical Conditions Planning Guide: A detailed resource with hypothetical scenarios to consider.

                          • AARP’s State-by-State Advance Directive Links: A directory for finding your state’s specific requirements.

                          Advice for Listeners:

                          • Choose advocates who truly understand your values and wishes.
                          • Revisit your documents annually or after major life changes.
                          • Never assume—make your plans explicit to avoid burdening loved ones during difficult times.

                            • Call to Action:

                            Take the first step today: visit AARP’s State Directory to download your state’s advance care directive forms. Share this episode with someone you care about and start the conversation about planning for the future.

                            Connect with Thoughtful Planning:

                            • Website: Legacy Toolkit
                            • Facebook: Legacy Toolkit
                            • LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit

                              • Resources Mentioned:

                              • My Directives
                              • MedicAlert
                              • Five Wishes
                              • Emory Center’s Critical Conditions Planning Guide
                              • Texas Advance Directives
                              • AARP’s State-by-State Advance Directive Links


                                • Thank You for Listening!

                                Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review.


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                                31 min
                              • Exploring End-of-Life Options S2EP31

                                Summary:

                                In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago delve into the complex and often misunderstood topics of Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) and Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED). As part of their journey in end-of-life planning, they discuss the emotional and legal intricacies of these options, providing insights to help individuals and families navigate these deeply personal decisions.

                                Disclaimer:

                                This episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals for your specific situation.

                                Today’s Essential Question:

                                What does it mean to truly have control over the way you die? And how do these options help you achieve that?

                                Episode Highlights:

                                • Medical Aid in Dying (MAID):
                                • Legal in 11 U.S. jurisdictions as of December 2024, MAID allows terminally ill adults to self-administer prescribed medication to peacefully end their lives.
                                • Requires multiple doctor approvals, mental competency, and adherence to strict safeguards.
                                • Not all approved individuals choose to follow through; many seek peace of mind knowing they have the option.
                                • Resources: Compassion and Choices
                                • Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED):
                                • An option available without legal restrictions, allowing terminally ill or chronically ill individuals to hasten death by choosing to stop consuming food and water.
                                • Requires a strong support system, including caregivers and possibly hospice involvement.
                                • A slower process compared to MAID, often taking one to three weeks.
                                • Comparing MAID and VSED:
                                • MAID is faster and legally regulated, while VSED relies solely on individual choice and support.
                                • Both require mental competency and involve significant planning and communication with loved ones and professionals.
                                • Personal Reflections:
                                • Honey and Santiago share candid insights from their own discussions, touching on their preferences, challenges, and hopes for legislative changes in Texas.
                                • The emotional impact on families and caregivers is a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of preparation and open communication.

                                  • Key Takeaways from Honey and Santiago:

                                  • Start having these conversations early to ensure clarity and alignment with loved ones.
                                  • Document your wishes and consider recording videos to reaffirm your decisions for future reference.
                                  • Explore resources like Compassion and Choices or speak to healthcare providers to better understand your options.

                                    • Conclusion:

                                    This episode aims to shed light on end-of-life options, encouraging families to embrace proactive and compassionate planning. By understanding MAID and VSED, individuals can make informed choices that align with their values and needs.

                                    Connect, Subscribe & Follow Legacy Toolkit and Thoughtful Planning:

                                    • Don’t forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might find it helpful. Your legacy starts with the conversations you have today.
                                    • Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney  
                                    • Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page:

                                      • https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit 

                                      • Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast

                                        • Resources Mentioned:

                                        • Compassion and Choices: https://compassionandchoices.org/our-issues/vsed/


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                                        18 min
                                      • The True Cost of Not Having a Will S2EP30

                                        In this episode, Honey and Santiago visit with Jennifer Norton, founder of Norton Estate Planning and Elder Law Firm in Indianapolis, Indiana. With her expertise, Jennifer helps listeners understand the vital importance of having a will or trust and the nuances of probate. They dive into the complexities of estate planning, sharing actionable insights, real-life stories, and practical advice to make navigating this often-overwhelming process a little easier.

                                        Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Consult an estate or elder law attorney in your state for your specific situation.

                                        Today’s essential question: How important is it for you to have a will or trust?

                                        Episode Highlights:
                                        • The Reality of Wills & Trusts: Jennifer explains the differences between wills and trusts, including how they guide the distribution of assets and their impact on probate processes.
                                        • Probate Unveiled: What is probate, and why do many seek to avoid it? Jennifer provides a breakdown of the process and shares the potential emotional and financial costs.
                                        • Real-Life Scenarios: Jennifer shares stories of how families can be affected when proper planning isn't in place, particularly in blended families or with disputes over assets.
                                        • Guardianship and Minor Children: The crucial role of guardianship designations and how they protect children and their inheritance, even in the absence of a will.
                                        • Debts, Assets, and Probate Fees: Who pays for outstanding debts after a death, and how can estate planning reduce the financial burden on loved ones?
                                        • Benefits of a Trust-Based Plan: How trusts can avoid probate, save time, reduce costs and ensure privacy for families.
                                        • Planning for Funerals and Beyond: Options like funeral pre-planning, using life insurance for funeral expenses and organizing assets to ease the burden on family members.

                                          Advice from Jennifer Norton: 

                                          • Organization is Key: Keep a clear record of assets, debts, and important documents to avoid a "morbid scavenger hunt."
                                          • Have Difficult Conversations Early: Talk with family members about your wishes to avoid disputes later.
                                          • Choose the Right Team: Select executors, trustees and guardians who are reliable and capable, even if they aren't family members.
                                          • Trusts Can Save Time & Money: Although setting up a trust may seem costly upfront, it often saves significant time and expenses in the long run.

                                            Conclusion:

                                            This episode underscores the importance of proactive estate planning to secure your family’s future and peace of mind.

                                            Connect with Jennifer Norton:
                                            • Website: https://www.estate-planners.org/
                                            • Phone: 317-572-8696
                                            • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nortonestateplanners/
                                            • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nortonestateplanners/
                                            • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/norton-estate-planning-elder-law-firm-llc/

                                              • Connect, Subscribe & Follow Legacy Toolkit and Thoughtful Planning:

                                              • Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning.
                                              • Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney  
                                              • Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page:

                                                • https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit 

                                                • Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast

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                                                  1 hr 1 min
                                                • One Year of Thoughtful Planning: Celebrating Highlights and What’s Next EP29

                                                  In this special one-year anniversary episode, hosts Honey and Santiago reflect on a year of thoughtful conversations, memorable stories, and essential planning insights. They revisit key episodes, share their favorite moments, and discuss what’s ahead for Thoughtful Planning.

                                                  Today’s essential question: How can we best support you in taking the necessary steps forward in your own thoughtful planning journey?

                                                  Episode Highlights:

                                                  • Reflections from Year One: Honey and Santiago discuss the journey of normalizing end-of-life planning and making these conversations less intimidating and more accessible.
                                                  • Favorite Moments from Key Episodes:
                                                  • Episode 2: Santiago and his mom, Virginia, share personal insights on organizing paperwork and communicating final wishes.
                                                  • Episodes 6-8 & 13: A deep dive into foundational legal documents like wills, trusts, and medical directives. Disclaimer: Always consult with an attorney for specific legal advice.
                                                  • Episode 14: Featuring Robin Phoenix Johnson on incorporating humor into end-of-life planning—introducing the concept of "FUNerals" to bring joy to the farewell.
                                                  • Episode 15: A discussion on planning for pets in our absence and the importance of a pet care legacy plan.
                                                  • Episode 16: Santiago honors Memorial Day, discussing its true meaning as a day of reflection rather than celebration.
                                                  • Episode 19: April Adams Pertuis shares stories of family health crises and how they sparked deeper planning efforts.
                                                  • Episode 25: Kelly Brown talks about end-of-life photography as a healing tool, offering comfort through cherished memories.


                                                    Looking Ahead:

                                                    Honey and Santiago are excited about upcoming episodes covering new aspects of end-of-life planning, from different types of burials to advanced medical directives and more expert interviews. They are here to make the journey less lonely, providing both practical advice and personal support.

                                                    Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

                                                    • Pet Care Legacy Guide: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/petcarelegacyguide
                                                    • You can find all the episodes on most podcast stations or you can go to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ThoughtfulPlanning/podcasts

                                                      Connect, Subscribe & Follow:

                                                      • Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning.
                                                      • https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney - Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page
                                                      • https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit - Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page
                                                      • https://www.youtube.com/@ThoughtfulPlanning/podcasts - Legacy Toolkit YouTube Podcast Channel
                                                      • Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast

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                                                        14 min
                                                      • The Gift of a Planned Goodbye EP28

                                                        In this solo episode, Honey shares her personal journey of planning her own obituary, eulogy, and funeral presentation. Inspired by her experiences in her death doula training, she reflects on how preparing these final elements can be an act of love for those left behind. Honey discusses why she initially left these responsibilities to her family but later realized the peace and clarity that comes from planning these aspects herself.


                                                        Today’s essential question: Would you prepare your own obituary, eulogy, and funeral presentation?


                                                        Episode Highlights:
                                                        • Honey’s Journey: Inspired by her death doula training, Honey shares her evolving thoughts on planning her own farewell, including her initial hesitation and eventual commitment to completing the task.
                                                        • Obituary Writing Tips: Insights on writing an obituary, keeping costs low, and where to publish, including options for hiring a writer or using Canva templates.
                                                        • Creating a Personal Eulogy: Honey's unique experience recording her own eulogy, making it interactive for her audience, and adding personal messages for her family. Practical tips on keeping it concise and heartfelt.
                                                        • Funeral Presentation Misunderstanding: How Honey’s interpretation of her "funeral timeline" assignment became a full 61-slide photo and story presentation, complete with music and family-specific colors.
                                                        • Memorial Ideas from Peers: Unique memorial ideas shared by classmates, like story cards for guests, bonfire send-offs, personal collections as parting gifts, and interactive gestures at the service.


                                                          Advice for Listeners:

                                                          • Keep It Simple & Personal: When creating these farewell pieces, focus on what feels authentic to you. Simple messages, favorite songs, or colors can create a meaningful touch.
                                                          • Use Accessible Tools: Canva templates, Google Drive, and video recording apps are easy, accessible tools for creating and organizing your materials.
                                                          • Consider Costs: Whether digital or in print, be mindful of costs and consider how recurring fees or publication fees may impact your choices.
                                                          • Invite Participation: Interactive elements like story cards or QR codes with links to videos allow your loved ones to engage, remember and heal.


                                                            Conclusion:

                                                            Honey concludes with a reminder: planning your farewell is a final gift of love and care, helping your loved ones find comfort and closure. She emphasizes that these preparations can be a unique expression of your life, bringing peace to both you and your family.


                                                            Previous Episodes Referenced in Podcast:

                                                            • Episode 14: ‘FUN’erals: How Robin Phoenix Johnson Incorporates Laughter Into Planning Your Last Laugh - https://youtu.be/po82O9aM8YY
                                                            • Episode 21: Guided Grace: The Role of Doulas in End-of-Life Planning - https://youtu.be/PjsSvd_JaL0


                                                              • Connect, Subscribe & Follow:

                                                              • Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning.
                                                              • https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney - Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page
                                                              • https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit - Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page
                                                              • Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast


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                                                                21 min
                                                              • Fighting Throat Cancer: The Journey, Challenges and Importance of Planning EP27

                                                                *Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about cancer, its treatment & the side effects, which may be emotionally challenging for some listeners.

                                                                In this special episode, Santiago shares his experience battling stage IVB throat cancer. He highlights the challenges faced by cancer patients, the importance of planning ahead, and offers practical tips to help others navigate similar situations.


                                                                Today’s essential question: Why is it important to plan for emergencies or end-of-life situations while you are clear of mind?


                                                                Episode Highlights:

                                                                Life Before Cancer

                                                                • Santiago felt relatively healthy despite aches from 21+ years of military service.
                                                                • He was active as a JROTC instructor & completed the Marine Corps Marathon in October 2015.


                                                                  • The Move & Diagnosis

                                                                  • During their final military move, Santiago felt something in his throat & went to his doctor in July.
                                                                  • The ENT specialist performed a biopsy & 2 weeks later, on July 25, 2016, Santiago was diagnosed with stage IVB throat cancer.
                                                                  • Honey accompanied him, but Santiago received the diagnosis alone before breaking the news to her.


                                                                    • The Treatment Process

                                                                    • Santiago underwent surgeries for a chemo port & PEG (stomach) tube.
                                                                    • He endured 7 weeks of radiation with a claustrophobic mask bolted to the bed.
                                                                    • He received 3 rounds of Cisplatin chemo, suffering from nausea, vomiting, hearing loss & nerve damage.


                                                                      • Challenges

                                                                      • Santiago’s weight dropped from 185 to 134 pounds in just 3 weeks due to extreme nausea.
                                                                      • He struggled with drop foot & nerve damage, affecting his ability to walk & hold objects, leading them to switch to metal mugs with tops.


                                                                        • Balancing Work & Home Life

                                                                        • Santiago’s boss allowed him to take leave, but he made weekly visits to work when he wasn’t in the hospital to reassure others he was fighting.
                                                                        • He struggled with being unable to perform tasks he once enjoyed, like mowing the lawn.


                                                                          • The Hospital Experience

                                                                          • Santiago praised his ENT doctor, Dr. Newberry, & radiation oncologist, Dr. Wong, but had a tough experience with his first hemo-oncologist, who read the wrong patient’s file.


                                                                          Post-Treatment Considerations

                                                                          • Ongoing side effects include special dental care needs due to radiation and  surgeries to widen his throat so he could eat more comfortably.

                                                                          Key Takeaways:
                                                                          • Stay Informed: Be proactive, research your treatment & ask the right questions to avoid complications.
                                                                          • Emotional Resilience: Cancer is emotionally draining. Acknowledge your own needs while balancing those of your caregivers.
                                                                          • Caregiver Support: Santiago emphasizes the vital role his wife, Honey, & his dog, Maxx, played during his fight, showing how love & support can make a difference.

                                                                            Conclusion:

                                                                            Santiago’s journey highlights the importance of mental and physical strength, along with the critical support of loved ones. By sharing his story, he hopes to help others understand the challenges of cancer and the need for planning ahead while you’re clear of mind. Facing the toughest battles becomes easier when you’re prepared and supported.


                                                                            Resources

                                                                            • In podcast episode 26 Honey shared tips on the items I used. Click the link to access those tips: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/tips-for-a-throat-cancer-patient
                                                                            • https://www.facebook.com/share/g/Gor6k8fHn2wTqw8W/ - SPOHNC (Support for People With Oral and Head and Neck Cancer) Facebook group
                                                                            • https://spohnc.org/supportive-care/ - Website for SPOHNC


                                                                              Subscribe & Follow:

                                                                              • Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform
                                                                              • https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney - Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page
                                                                              • https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit - Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page
                                                                              • Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast


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                                                                                45 min
                                                                              • Caregiving Through Throat Cancer: The Importance of Planning Ahead EP26

                                                                                *Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about cancer treatment & caretaking, which may be emotionally challenging for some listeners.


                                                                                In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey shares her personal experience as a caregiver during her husband's battle with throat cancer. Through her journey, she highlights the challenges of caregiving, the importance of planning ahead, & provides practical tips to help others navigate similar situations.


                                                                                Today’s essential question: Why is it important to plan for emergencies or end-of-life situations while you are clear of mind?


                                                                                Episode Highlights
                                                                                • The Diagnosis
                                                                                • Husband diagnosed with stage 4b throat cancer
                                                                                • Initial disbelief
                                                                                • The Treatment Process
                                                                                • Surgeries to add the chemo port & stomach tube (PEG tube)
                                                                                • 7 weeks of radiation (Mon. - Fri.)
                                                                                • 3 rounds of chemotherapy
                                                                                • Caretaker Challenges
                                                                                • Balancing work, home life & caretaking duties
                                                                                • Learning to manage stomach tube & medication administration
                                                                                • Dealing with side effects of treatment


                                                                                  • Advice for Caretakers

                                                                                  • Keep a daily journal for doctor visits & patient's condition
                                                                                  • Prepare a "go bag" for hospital visits
                                                                                  • Manage medication schedules & medication type (liquid/crushable)
                                                                                  • Create a support system with family & neighbors


                                                                                    • Essential Supplies

                                                                                    • Pill crusher
                                                                                    • Recliner (non-rocking)
                                                                                    • Shower chair
                                                                                    • Buckets lined with paper towels for spitting
                                                                                    • Vomit bags for travel


                                                                                      • Post-Treatment Considerations

                                                                                      • Ongoing side effects from radiation
                                                                                      • Special dental care requirements


                                                                                        • Key Takeaways

                                                                                        • Plan ahead: By planning for emergencies & end-of-life decisions before a crisis hits, you'll be more equipped to focus on what really matters—caring for your loved one & helping them through the treatment process.
                                                                                        • Stay informed: Being proactive, learning about treatments & asking the right questions to doctors can prevent unnecessary emergencies or complications.
                                                                                        • Emotional resilience: Caregiving is emotionally draining & it's important to acknowledge your own needs while navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.
                                                                                        • Support networks: Finding the right support system, whether through family, friends, or even online communities, is vital to managing the challenging role of caregiving.


                                                                                          • Conclusion

                                                                                          Honey’s story highlights the importance of planning ahead for life’s unexpected challenges. Through her personal experience of caregiving for her husband during his battle with throat cancer, she provides practical tips & heartfelt advice to help others navigate similar journeys. Planning not only reduces stress but also allows caregivers to focus on what matters most—supporting their loved ones. 


                                                                                          Resources

                                                                                          • In the podcast I mentioned I’d share tips on the items I used. Click the link to access those tips: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/tips-for-a-throat-cancer-patient
                                                                                          • I mentioned I’d share a link to a caregiver group that I’m in, but it’s private so I can’t share it. Instead, do a search on Facebook for ‘caregiver’ & several groups come up. Choose a group that matches your needs.
                                                                                          • https://www.facebook.com/share/g/Gor6k8fHn2wTqw8W/ - SPOHNC (Support for People With Oral and Head and Neck Cancer) Facebook group
                                                                                          • https://spohnc.org/supportive-care/ - Website for SPOHNC
                                                                                          • https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/services-for-veterans/military-veteran-caregiver-network.html - If you’re a caregiver to a veteran or military family member the you can join the Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN)
                                                                                          • https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/ - Tip for veterans & military families, go to va.gov & scroll to the bottom to click the VA Outreach Events where you might be able to find events for caregivers.


                                                                                            Subscribe & Follow:

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                                                                                              24 min
                                                                                            • End-of-Life Photography: A Compassionate Lens on Love and Loss EP25

                                                                                              *Content Warning: This episode contains discussion about end of life photography, including a sensitive account of a stillbirth photo session.


                                                                                              In this heartfelt episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago are joined by Kelly Brown, a compassionate photographer and the founder of Rose Colored Lens Poetic Imagery. This episode highlights end-of-life photography and Kelly’s goal of starting a non-profit.


                                                                                              Today’s essential question: How important is it for you to capture life events using a professional photographer? 


                                                                                              Episode Highlights:
                                                                                              The Start of Kelly's Journey: Kelly shares how she discovered her passion for photography as a way to pay for school and how it became her life’s calling. She explains the turning point when she realized she could use her skills to create lasting memories for families going through end-of-life experiences.


                                                                                              The Emotional Experience of End-of-Life Photography: Kelly recounts her first end-of-life photo session, photographing a stillbirth, and the challenges she faced, from emotional turmoil to technical difficulties. She emphasizes the beauty and humanity in capturing these deeply personal moments.


                                                                                              The Birth of the Rose Colored Lens Foundation: Inspired by the impact of her work, Kelly shares her vision for her nonprofit organization, the Rose Colored Lens Foundation. She explains how she hopes to make bereavement photography accessible to families across the country and eventually around the world.


                                                                                              Advice for Listeners:

                                                                                              Be Open to Emotion: Kelly advises both photographers and families to embrace the emotions that come with end-of-life moments. She highlights that empathy and vulnerability can lead to a more genuine and impactful experience.


                                                                                              Supporting Loved Ones Through Photography: For family members who might be hesitant to capture these moments, Kelly suggests approaching the topic gently, emphasizing the lasting memories and the healing power of having these photographs to cherish.


                                                                                              Key Takeaways:

                                                                                              Photography as a Healing Tool: Kelly’s story illustrates how photography can serve as a powerful medium for capturing memories, helping individuals process grief, and providing a sense of comfort.


                                                                                              End-of-Life Photography Is Not Strange: Many people might feel uncomfortable with the idea of capturing end-of-life moments, but Kelly’s experience shows that these photographs can be a deeply meaningful way to honor and remember loved ones.


                                                                                              Creating Lasting Impact Through Nonprofit Work: The Rose Colored Lens Foundation’s mission is to make end-of-life photography accessible to everyone. Kelly’s dream is to ensure that families in hospitals, hospice centers, and other settings have the opportunity to capture these precious moments without the burden of financial worry.


                                                                                              Conclusion:

                                                                                              In this episode, Kelly Brown reminds us all of the power of capturing life’s most significant moments, even those that are incredibly difficult. Her journey from a casual photographer to a creator of beautiful, heartfelt memories shows us the importance of empathy, vulnerability, and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. As you listen to this episode, consider how capturing life’s events – whether joyful or sorrowful – can create a legacy that lasts beyond a lifetime.


                                                                                              Connect with Kelly:

                                                                                              • Follow Rose Colored Lens Photography on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088954846444
                                                                                              • Website: https://www.rosecoloredlensphoto.com/

                                                                                                • 

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                                                                                                  44 min

                                                                                                About Thoughtful Planning

                                                                                                From the publisher's feed

                                                                                                Life doesn’t always go as expected. That’s why planning for contingencies is so important. The Thoughtful Planning podcast will help you understand why having these conversations, and making these decisions are so important.