Let’s talk about death – it’ll be fun. (Said no one ever.)
Actually, someone is saying it. And Lisa Newburger of Discuss Directives isn’t just saying it, she’s doing it. Through her alter ego “Diana Directive”, Lisa is educating people about advance care planning and how to have those difficult talks about end of life wishes.
Using humor and thought provoking techniques, Lisa and the team at Discuss Directives provide instruction on why it’s so important to discuss your ACP thoroughly (and more than once!) with your loved ones and your healthcare team. They put a lot of emphasis on the importance of choosing a healthcare proxy or medical power of attorney.
Discuss Directives, LLC was founded in 2010, providing wellness programs on topics such as life/work balance, end-of-life decision making, workplace bullying, and suicide prevention. Lisa’s 20+ years experience as a Masters-Level Social Work Supervisor has taught her how crucial advance care planning is for those who are healthy as well as for seriously ill patients.
Lisa uses her character “Diana Directive” as the perfect example of the person you don’t want to choose for your healthcare proxy. Diana is opportunistic and superficial. Not the best qualities for someone responsible for someone else’s medical decisions. Diana’s hobbies include “whining, talking on her cell phone, and looking in the mirror”, and her skills are limited to one thing – shopping.
Discuss Directives has some great products you can use to facilitate end of life talks. The Heart2Hearts cards and workbook provide conversation prompts in easy to use formats. You can purchase a set of cards and a workbook for yourself by clicking here. Both products are affordable and simple to use. Jerry and I have purchased workbooks for ourselves and are making progress on our own long overdue ACPs.
You can listen to Lisa’s interview with us on The Heart of Hospice podcast by clicking here. You’ll benefit from Lisa’s wisdom and experience, and laugh when you meet Diana herself! Connect with Discuss Directives at discussdirectives.com to book Lisa for your event or conference, and to purchase the Heart2Heart products.
Find more information about end of life care an advance care planning on The Heart of Hospice podcast page. We talk about hospice philosophy, how an interdisciplinary team works, and what you need to know to choose a hospice agency that’s a good fit for yourself or someone you love. We even have a little fun and some laughs along the way. Have a question? Send it to Jerry at jerry@theheartofhospice.com or Helen at helen@theheartofhospice.com. You’ll get a personal response.
We’re always glad to connect with you. You are The Heart of Hospice.