A paradigm shift of viewing palliative care or hospice as a gift instead of seeing it as giving up has the potential to change the way we experience advanced age.

— Lisa J. Shultz

As I enlarged my vision to see the bigger picture of my dad’s full life, I was better able to let go of being stuck in memories of its end.

— Lisa J. Shultz

As I inch forward to embrace my life again by being mindful, writing books, and planning adventures, I sense my dad would approve. I know he would want me to be happy.

— Lisa J. Shultz

By acknowledging my impermanence, I can consider if there is anything I can do now to help my loved ones who will be left behind cope with losing me and to facilitate healing.

— Lisa J. Shultz

By seizing every opportunity for kindness, forgiveness, healing, and love that crosses my path each day, I hope that my death, although perhaps sad for some, will be gracefully concluded.

— Lisa J. Shultz

Grief is part of my human experience. There will always be loss during my lifetime. Loss has come in a variety of forms to me—such as death, divorce, losing a job, and selling a beloved home. Each event brought me new opportunities and experiences that would not have been possible otherwise.

— Lisa J. Shultz

I am certain that I’m not the only one who would like to have a do-over on an interaction with a loved one.

— Lisa J. Shultz

I am not knocking advances that provide a healthier life and alleviate suffering or unnecessary premature death. I am advocating inclusion of education on end-of-life matters and the promotion of understanding, conversation, and planning.

— Lisa J. Shultz

I believe it’s imperative to bring the light of support and knowledge to patients and families when death is approaching.

— Lisa J. Shultz

I believe one of the most important reasons I am here today is to practice forgiveness and to learn the power of it as a gift to others and me. By focusing on forgiveness in my life today, I am promoting my healing and lessening my regrets.

— Lisa J. Shultz