On Friday, Tina Ketchie Stearns joined me for a Facebook Live chat to discuss her upcoming telesummit, It’s About How You LIVE – Taking the Fear Out of Having Conversations About Advance Care Planning, Serious Illness and End of Life Care. I'll be a part of the telesummit which launches September 21. To learn more about the telesummit, which features interviews with 22 experts, visit www.itsabouthowyoulive.com. You can watch our chat, below.

During our chat, Tina and I shared important information about hospice including:

• The hospice respite benefit, which gives you a five-day break;


• The importance of having discussions early so you can end caregiving without regrets;


• Your critical role of advocate especially as you ask for hospice services at the end of your caree's life.

If your caree currently receives hospice benefits, consider taking a break to attend our Second Annual National Caregiving Conference. It may seem out to take a break to attend our conference but it may be the best way to take a break. You'll gain information and support during our conference to help you manage a future without your caregiving responsibilities.

Tina and I also discussed your hesitancy to use the five-day respite break because of the fear your caree will die during your break. Know your caree may need solitude to complete his or her journey here and begin the journey to there. Take comfort in knowing your caree leaves in the company of angels, who surround both of you with love and appreciation.