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By Michael T. Lahti
In this blog I would like to write about my recent health episode, as it put in clear focus why estate planning is so important.
During a routine yearly “scope,” I become one of the approximately one in 200 persons who gets a “bleed.” What this means is that an artery was nicked during the procedure.
The bleeding continued until I really felt like I was in distress, and I checked into the emergency room. At the emergency room, my vitals where checked and I was admitted into St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford. At the hospital I received 3 blood transfusions until the bleeding abated, and I was discharged.
Upon discharge the bleeding began anew, and I went to the emergency room and was admitted, again, into St. Luke’s, where I received another 4 blood transfusions and had the bleeding area clamped. I was discharged and am writing this piece from home, and expect to return to work next week.
Here are my takeaways from my ordeal:
First, I feel lucky to have a wonderful hospital like St. Luke’s so close. The care I received there was first class; and all of the people who attended to me were kind, professional, and competent.
Second, I am reminded that “life is fragile,” and to appreciate it every day.
Third, I am going to donate blood, and re-pay the nameless donors who helped me out.
Fourth, I am glad I had my own documents in place. Even though I was nervous, I was comforted knowing that if bad went to worse (1) my property would go as I directed, (2) the right persons would be making decisions for me, and (3) appropriate family members had access to my health care information.
Fifth, it emphasized what I already knew, that being that the work we do helping families with their estate plans is very important and rewarding work.