Documenting your wishes

Also in this section: 

• Power of attorney > 
• Making a will >
• Other things to think about >

Talking about dying can be one of the most difficult conversations to have, but it is important to let your loved ones know what you want. It can allow you to have control over what you want to have happen at the end of your life. A ‘letter of wishes’ allows you to tell your loved ones about the type of treatment you may want, what kind of funeral you would like and explain your will in further detail (there is more information on the information page on making a will). Your ‘letter of wishes’ could be written by hand or typed up using a computer. If you are unable to write it yourself you could ask someone close to you to help you. If you can’t or don’t want to write your letter you could record your wishes using a video camera or dictaphone. It is important to think about who you want to share your wishes with and who will be the person that might help you fulfil your wishes. Your health care team can help with this if you are finding it difficult.