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Mary S's avatar

This was beautifully written. I think of Rick every day. Grief just hides in the shadows, waiting to step out and whisper, “Remember me?” I know how proud Rick was of you because you are a really decent person with a really beautiful soul. Hugs to you 🩷💕🩷

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

💕

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Sophie S.'s avatar

What a story, so beautifully written. It's so tough to have to say goodbye to the people we love. That poem and the fact he included it in that folder says so much about the type of person your father was and how well he knew you.

My father had been sick for a very long time before he passed, so we had had those difficult conversations, down to every little detail. And I must say, it made a tough time a little easier. So I absolutely agree with you that it's so important to prepare for these things.

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

❤️

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Sara McIntire's avatar

Very sorry for your loss. This is great advice. Long ago(?1990’s), JAMA published an essay by a physician who wrote about two friends who died - one suddenly, in an accident, and one after a much longer period of cancer. It was about how preparing for death has a profound effect on the experience of the grieving families. Your father’s preparation and organization was not only wise, it was kind. He sounds like a fantastic father.

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

He was the very best. Thanks for reading and for the article mention. Sounds so relevant to this topic!

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Namrita Khosla's avatar

This was powerful and moving. Thank you for sharing.

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

❤️

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Stacy Boone's avatar

My nose got that twinge when I am ready to cry, the poem did me in. What you share is practical advice that unfortunately too many prepare for. Thank you for your guidance, even in grief.

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

Thank you for reading ❤️

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Josefin Waltin's avatar

Thank you for your important and gentle words.

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Jillian Bybee, MD's avatar

Thank you ❤️

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Mara Gordon, MD's avatar

Thank you for this thoughtful post. ❤️

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