1. Terminal illness
Jessica sumner

2. What is terminal illness?
According to Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, terminal illness is… “an advanced stage of a disease with an unfavorable prognosis and no known cure.”

3. Examples of terminal illnesses
Alzheimer’s
Some forms/stages of cancer
Sometimes MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
Cystic Fibrosis
Some brain tumors

4. Terminal illness
In its definition, terminal illness does not have a cure although medicine and treatments could be used to alleviate pain.
Some patients choose not to take such medication or treatment because of the side effects.

5. Coping with terminal illness
Coping with terminal illness is devastating for both the patient and their families.
They suddenly have to make decisions that they never thought they would have to
They are facing their own death head on.

6. Anticipatory death
This is the grief reaction one feels before an impending death; could be their own or their loved ones’.
Anxiety, dread, helplessness, feeling overwhelmed, and guilt are come emotions.
This does not take the place of after death grief, nor does it necessarily make after death any easier.

7. preparations Create a living will
Find guardians for children, if you have young children
Life Insurance, what are their policies?
Writing a will
Seek counseling

8. Advice for Caregivers of a dying child
Choose a time when you can talk openly to them about their illness and decided just how much info you want to give them.
Children are most comfortable in familiar surroundings, like their home. Reserve hospital visits for medical care only.
If hospital stay is needed, surround them with familiar items such as their bedding, stuffed animals, and toys
Answer any questions that they might have and provide resources (religious or spiritual leaders) if need be.
Provide Palliative or Hospice care if need be.
Make time for yourself, this is a stressful situation and can take a huge toll

9. Advice for caregivers of a dying parents
Respect the hierarchy- you can help your parents with their needs but listen to their wants and their role in the decision making process.
Honor the terms of their living wills
Try to share the responsibilities with other siblings and/or the other parent
Find time for yourself and make sure you stay healthy both physically and mentally. Know when to seek help.
Discuss preferences for their funeral, wake, or cremation.

10. Advice for caring for a dying spouse
Make joint decisions – continue to consult one another on important life and financial decisions.
Utilize the remaining time together as best possible.
Make sure they have enough time to talk to all of those they want to talk to. Help them fulfil their relationships.
Be grateful to have shared a life together and reminisce on all you have been through.
Learning to let go- a very gradual process and is different for every single person.

11. Stages of goodbye
1. Crisis: terminal illness disrupts the family equilibrium and creates turmoil.
2. Unity: Impending death can push families to resolve hard feelings and express their emotions openly.
3. Upheaval: Guilt, anger and resentment can emerge.
4. Resolution: Old issues can be resolved
5. Renewal: Begins with the funeral with the celebration of life.

12. Video Clip
Terminal Illness