Hear a doctor with an important message

DR CHARLIE Corke is a highly respected intensive care specialist. His much-acclaimed book Letting Go: how to plan for a good death is the result of many years working in his field.

Most of us wish to die quietly at home, seeing it as a kind death we want for ourselves and our loved ones. But for nearly all of us, as Dr Corke points out, the scenario will be quite different. It is more likely to be in hospital accompanied by intensive and mounting technology.

Dr Corke notes the enormous pressure on our family to keep us going where there is no written information about what we want; our plan. He shows us the importance of writing a clear statement of our wishes and how to do it.

He guides us through this process by recounting the stories of the many patients he has had in his care. He helps to clarify what we want by exploring our values and attitudes.

Even knowing what is wanted we still struggle to follow through with the wishes for our loved ones, to accept and let go. Dr Corke shows us that to let go is an act of love. We show love by giving people something they desire.

We are fortunate to share his wisdom. At the invitation of U3A Surf Coast, Dr Corke will give a presentation at the Lions Village, 12-16 Kooringa Place, Torquay on June 8 at 1.30pm.