Afford Anything Can You Really Afford to Die? - with Hospice and Oncology Nurse Suzanne O’Brien
May 9, 2025
Suzanne O’Brien, a hospice and oncology nurse, sheds light on the often-overlooked financial realities of dying in America. She reveals how costs of long-term care can decimate savings, sharing a shocking story about a couple with $5 million facing devastating expenses. Suzanne highlights alternative, affordable end-of-life options like home wakes and water cremation. She emphasizes the importance of having wills and proactive planning to alleviate stress for loved ones, while also touching on the emotional aspects of dying.
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Aretha Franklin's Handwritten Will
- Aretha Franklin wrote a handwritten will on a napkin found in her couch cushions.
- Despite its informality, the will was legally upheld, proving any will is better than none.
Good Death Means Good Life
- A good death is essentially a good life lived with awareness of its finite nature.
- Patients often share wisdom at end of life, teaching us how to live fully and without regret.
Common End-of-Life Regrets
- Death is the number one fear worldwide, overtaking public speaking since COVID.
- At life's end, most regret not living authentically or following their inner calling.