Legal next of kin

LOVED our LGBTQIA+ centered discussion with the wonderful Kate Muehlemann Cataldo. Navigating illness and end of life issues is already fraught with difficulties, even more so when you are a member of a minority group and possibly finding yourself with care providers and/or family members who don’t understand your culture and choices.

Good serious illness and EOL care puts YOU, whoever that might be, at the center of the conversation and we hope this discussion will bring up important consideration points for planning. One of the major things we’d like to point out here, is that there is a hierarchy - a little different in each state - in who is named your medical proxy should you NOT designate one yourself. If you have been with someone for many years, but are not “legally” married, they may be left out of this important role and someone else who does not respect your choices may be named (sounds scary to us). We hope that’s reason enough to get an Advance Directive done so YOU can choose the person who has say over your medical decisions should you not be able to speak for yourself.

Kate brought such a depth of empathy and understanding to a topic that she discusses often via @Constellations.Deathcare (shameless plug, please go check her out!)

Watch the full recording: https://youtu.be/uBpF2HVXrR4

Artwork: Frida Kahlo

Join us in an upcoming event!

Get a complimentary session

Learn more about our services and see how Mettle Health can help you, or someone you’re caring for, by booking a short 20-minute complimentary consultation to discuss your situation with one of our counselors and find the best fit for future appointment types. You can join solo, or bring others in the care circle.