It’s been all over the news lately that beloved Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman passed away from a terminal illness he had been battling for quite some time. He appears to be an example of what it means to go through this type of trauma with dignity and family. But no one really knows exactly what he faced internally— how he suffered or how he grieved. But what we can say with certainty is that if you have been recently given a terminal diagnosis, this is one example of how you are not alone.
People tend to go through many stages at the point of a terminal diagnosis, from denial to acceptance, and there’s no right or wrong way to feel when it happens to you. The key is to figure out how to deal with all your emotions and to decide what’s important when it comes to making preparations. This may mean financial stability for your family, enjoying your final days, or learning to let go of some things in your past. Whatever it is, here are several tips to consider.
Find someone to talk to.
While some people have a great support system in their group of friends and family, there is still something to be said for getting outside help. People close to you may be going through some of the same emotions you are. They may not be able to help you find the tools you need to cope because they haven’t been able to find them for themselves. In fact, therapy may be a good idea for anyone around you who is having a difficult time with the life transition.
If you’ve never been to a therapist or psychiatrist appointment, don’t let the first session intimidate you. There are lots of different types of therapy that may be helpful to someone in your situation. For example, a therapist in NYC might suggest group therapy, intensive therapy, family therapy, or couples therapy. Most of the time, they’ll assess the situation and help you find what treatment is most comfortable for you. By finding the right therapist through the Therapy Group of NYC, you’ll be able to address any mental health issue you experience because of your diagnosis with the guidance of a therapist who understands.
Find extra income.
The last thing you might want to do in this situation is to continue to work your grueling nine-to-five job, especially if your diagnosis makes it hard to function in such a capacity. And the stress of your finances shouldn’t dominate your life. Instead, take a good look at everything you have and try to find ways to make life easier. This might include liquidating some assets, moving to a smaller place, or cashing in on some investments.
One of the biggest ways people with terminal illness find financial peace for end-of-life expenses is by cashing in their life insurance policies. The viatical settlement company americanlifefund.com offers financial relief and financial freedom. Basically, they’ll buy out your policy for an agreed-upon percentage and give you a lump sum immediately. This allows you to pay bills, take trips, or pre-pay for funeral expenses— whatever it is you need in order to take care of yourself during this time. With medical bills paid off and a financial plan in place, you can use the settlement to seek specialty treatment or simply to live out the rest of your life in comfort.
Live your life on your own terms.
Now is not the time to timidly let friends and family dictate how you should be living. Well-meaning loved ones can insist you get more rest when you know you should be living to the fullest. And while you may have been one to meekly take instruction before, it’s time to find out what’s important to you and take a stand for yourself.
Consider the life of Ronni Bennett, a popular blogger and former radio host, who was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. This diagnosis gave her a new perspective. She gave up her strict diet, fear of dementia, and caring what other people think. Instead, she now lives boldly, embraces her emotions, and takes in every experience. She embodies the idea that just because you’re losing your “good health” doesn’t mean you need to lose your good life.
