I am typing this from the family room of the Mater Hospital in Dublin. My Father showed symptoms this evening of a stroke, so we are fortunate to have several hospitals within a short distance. However, the ambulance arrival took 2.5 hours from when I first called. While watching him decline there was a feeling of helplessness, but knowing he was aware and able to talk gave huge comfort. It is fascinating how we can function even when our bodies or minds might be falling apart. As a formerly trained EMT I have a fasination with physiology ,but knowing how quickly things can change helps my mission to ensure advance plans are in place rather than left on the long finger.

Once it was clear something was happening within him, myself and my Mum went into action. We had his medicines and allergies listed in the Lions Club's Emergency Message in a Bottle, we sat with him monitoring his movements and any changes, and got a bag packed ready to take to the hospital. While we were waiting we were able to clarify his symptoms, check in with my Dad, who was dazed but aware and able to ask and answer questions. From the arrival of the wonderful paramedics through to getting a clear picture of the situation was incredibly quick and I feel so blessed that our health system allows quick turnaround for stroke patients, which is not something others with devastating conditions experience as smoothly. Thankfully my Father is now resting and will likely stay in hospital for a day or two to be monitored.

What was clear throughout the whole process from first symptom to me typing this reflection, is that we were prepared, took action, and were able to focus on my Dad rather than trying to figure things out, because we had already gathered the information needed. I am grateful my parents are such huge advocates for advance planning and have their own plans in place for this kind of event, and the future unforeseen occurrences.

So, from the 'what ifs' that you consider may happen to you or your loved ones, how prepared are you if something happened to you right now?

What can you do to get started?

First I recommend the Lion's Club Message in a Bottle - it is simple to set up, stored and ready for the emergency services should they ever need to be called for you. They have branches worldwide so check out one that is near you to get yours - https://www.lionsclubs.org/en 

Second, make sure someone in your household or a neighbour or friend has a copy of your house keys, a list of your medications and allergies, and can answer the basic questions if needed (key contacts, allergies, medication, date of birth, address, health issues, and GP details).

Third, have a 'go-bag'. This is what it seems, a bag of your key items to bring with you to hospital for at least 2 overnight stays - underwear, toiletries (sample size preferable), hair brush, toothbrush, pyjamas, dressing gown, bed socks, shoes, and a good book, and notebook.

When I lived and worked in Haiti I always had a go bag ready. Given the volatility of life there, we always had to be prepared. I found it a great habit to ensure that there was a back-up bag kept in my office and one at home, as well as emergency food supplies if I wasn't able to get out to the shops.

Last - get an Enduring Power of Attorney in place. This is vital to be able to have your care needs best represented - medical wishes, managing day to day bills, etc., This ensures that while you are living, you have given legal authorisation to a loved one to act on your behalf. Next of kin don't have automatic legal rights so make sure you get this in order. It will give you all peace of mind that you are properly prepared regardless of what crisis may occur. A will is for once you have died, an Enduring Power of Attorney for while you are alive. In Ireland check out Decision Support Service (www.decisionsupportservice.ie).

So in this time of both worry and relief, I hope you give yourself some consideration to be prepared for an emergency, so that you and your loved ones can focus on what matters... YOU!... and not wondering how you would want to be effectively cared and supported for in a time of crisis.

Give that we are now in the equinox, I share a wonderful video I saw on Facebook by an intriguing Scottish pagan woman - The Glasgow Witch - noting the new moon and entering into the equinox. In the Northern Hemisphere our days get longer and brighter, the Souther Hemisphere shorter and darker. I have been watching my carrots and sunflower seeds turn to seedlings, and this weekend will be sowing beetroot, beans and salad leaves. I love this time of year to welcome new growth.

One third through 2026, how has this year been for you so far? What will you achieve by the Solstice in June? Check out www.livinglegacy.ie and together we can help you get started and progress your advance planning.

So as I sign off from the hospital waiting room, I wish you a fulfilling season from equinox to solstic, and look forward to sharing the journey in the weeks ahead.

Jen