Written by Toni Lavigne-Conway | Special to the Valley Gazette
In a world where medical technology can prolong life in ways once unimaginable, the question of how we want to live, especially toward the end of life, has never been more important.
In recognition of Advance Care Planning Month, Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC) has taken the lead in raising awareness and educating the community on this critical topic. Recently, the organization hosted a community presentation at the Opeongo Seniors Centre (generously donated), drawing more than 75 attendees, all eager to learn about the importance of planning ahead.
In a recent conversation with two of the workshop presenters, Dylaina Wood, Clinical Director of MVHPC, and Julie Keon of Ready or Not End of Life, as well as Jenna Stamplicoski, MVHPC Coordinator of Volunteer and Bereavement Services, the three healthcare advocates shared their insights from the day’s event and explained why Advance Care Planning (ACP) is something everyone should consider.
What Is Advance Care Planning?
Ms. Wood explained that ACP “is a series of conversations with the people you trust—those who would make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to make them yourself—about what your wishes and preferences are for your health and personal care.”
As described by Advance Care Planning Canada, your wishes are your hopes and desires about your health and personal care, and your preferences are the choices you would make in various situations.
Both Ms. Wood and Ms. Stamplicoski stressed that these conversations are important to have sooner rather than later and should not be delayed. “Death will come for all of us; that’s 100% certain,” said Ms. Wood. “You don’t know when you’re going to get ‘hit by the bus,’ or deal with a serious illness, or become unable to make decisions. If we normalize these conversations with our people now, it becomes much easier to ensure our wishes are understood and respected when it matters most.”
She further emphasized that making an ACP is not a one-time task, it’s a living process meant to be flexible. “What you want and believe at 25 will be very different at 50. And your priorities at 55 may change again by the time you’re 75. Life experiences, age, and health challenges all shift what matters most to us.”
Another core message both Ms. Wood and Ms. Stamplicoski emphasized is to start these conversations early and not wait until a diagnosis or crisis forces them upon you. Planning ahead ensures that when the time comes, your loved ones and care providers can confidently honour your wishes.