I am wrongfully accused continuously, especially on social media, of being
"a nice person". I jokingly respond by saying that these comment must stop; they
are ruining my reputation as an attorney. What did I ever do to deserve such
accolades?
Well, after a lifetime of supporting many philanthropic endeavors, I
initiated and chaired for several years the Boca Walk to End Alzheimer's for the
Alzheimer's Association. A year later, I created a largely-attended Luncheon,
which has since become known as the "Brain Bowl", an event in which
professionals, advocates and caregivers come together to further support and
bring attention to those living with dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Lately, I learned a new word, “VOLUNESIA” : The Moment when you
forget you are volunteering to help change lives, because the process of doing so
has changed your own. This journey certainly has done just that for me, my
family and my law firm.
I do not have a family member diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. However, as a
South Florida native, born and raised here, I am involved simply because I love
our community and I want to see it thrive. Alzheimer’s has grown to be a huge
weed in our Garden of Eden, literally stealing the dignity and soul of our
neighbors, our friends, our loved ones.
As one person, I did not know what I could actually accomplish. However,
many incredible people quickly joined my efforts, demonstrating how working
towards a goal can empower oneself and energize the endeavors of everyone
involved.
As a lawyer and as a volunteer, I strive continuously to bring attention that
Alzheimer’s is hands-down the most expensive disease anyone will ever face, as
round-the-clock care is required for several years. Most people do not have the
financial, emotional or physical ability to handle that situation. Thereby, the
burden falls heavily on younger generations and taxpayers to meet this
overwhelming challenge. Yet, fundraising and awareness remains abysmally low.
I remain motivated to continuously do more by remembering that I was not
granted another day for my own purposes, but because someone out there
needs me. As Muhammad Ali once said, “Service to Others is the Rent that you
pay for your room here on Earth”.
Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much!!
Your time, your treasure or your talent—there is always something to give.
Graduations, July 4th Picnics, Lazy Days and exotic vacations are all what
make summertime a favorite season to many.
Likewise, additional downtime also makes this an ideal period to tackle
those long-time goals.
You know the ones. You dread doing these things, but as an adult, you
realize you must undertake: renovations on your house, making doctor
appointments, and, yes, Estate Planning.
Over the years, I have compiled a top 5 list of reasons that people provide
to not sign a Health Care Proxy “Living Will”, Durable Power of Attorney,
Revocable Trust or a Last Will & Testament:
1. I am superstitious and signing these documents will bring me bad
luck immediately.
My response: Sorry to skip ahead and tell you the ending of your Book of
Life, but it does not end well. Nothing you do will keep you from the inevitable.
However, creating your Estate documents provides you control in life and after
death that you will surrender if you do not address those issues now, while
capacitated.
2. What do I care what happens to me and my belongings when I die?
My response: A LOT!!! As the flight attendant always says at the
beginning of each trip, make sure to take care of yourself before attending to
others. Most elements of Estate Planning focus on YOU, ensuring your wants and
needs are met in YOUR lifetime. Remember, the flight attendant also says
sometimes how you better hold on tight because this trip might get bumpy? He is
referring to you, if you choose not to address Estate Planning issues properly.
3. Estate Planning costs too much money.
My response: In comparison to what? Guardianship? Probate? Obtaining
Court Orders for Declarative Actions? All of which will likely be needed if you do
not seek legal guidance. Pre-planning does not have to be expensive and the
money you will spend by doing it right will truly save you headaches, heartaches
and more money later.
4. I do not have enough assets over which to worry.
My response: YOU. You are your greatest asset. EVERY adult, including
your 19 year old son whose bills you still pay or your 21 year old daughter who is
still on your health care plan, should have a minimum of 4 Estate documents: a
Health Care Proxy (Living Will); Durable Power of Attorney; HIPAA; and Pre-Need Designation of Guardianship. Best Graduation present ever? A simple Estate package to ensure your granddaughter will always have the care she needs based on the documents she signed as a young adult.
5. I will worry about that if and when it is needed.
My response: Unless you hold a crystal ball, you just do not know when
that will be and by then it will be too late. The difference in legal rates is similar to
seeing a doctor for a wellness check-up and being rushed to that same doctor for
an emergency. The price difference is huge. Take the time to address these
issues now while you can still control the process, rather than having the process
control you.
If you DO have a crystal ball, we should talk. There is an investment that I
am considering….
So, Please, BEFORE Your Troubles Hit the Fan, Make Sure to Create
Your Estate Plan!!!
Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of attending a Beatles Tribute concert, generously sponsored by Nostalgia Magazine, during which people of all ages and backgrounds jumped from their seats (including me!) and began to sway in the aisles, along with the tunes.
I even noticed a judicial candidate, along with a former state senator, celebrating and appreciating the harmonies.
What is it about music and dancing that remains so engaging to a wide variety of personalities?
Researchers have long advocated that a strong connection exists between good mental health, movement and musicality.
A recent study found that when you try to move in synchronicity with someone else, it also improves your self-esteem, which can reduce symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, while encouraging a feeling of well-being.
For many years, my law firm organized and sponsored, along with many other community and business leaders, a Luncheon to help raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s and Dementia. This time, we invited Ballroom Professionals to entertain us. At the end of the event, the performers then lead the entire crowd in a coordinated dance effort.
All the attendees giggled and laughed, really enjoying not only observing the professional routines, but especially delighting with participating in the group dance themselves.
Everyone left the event, smiling, displaying increased energy and connections with one another.
We know that our minds and bodies remain interdependent. The way we move clearly affects the way we think and feel. Could it be that one of the easiest ways to handle the issues of aging and life is simply to dance our way through it?!?
As the Beatles once sang, I don't need to hug or hold you tight, I just wanna dance with you all night, In this world there's nothing I would rather do, 'Cause I'm happy just to dance with you”!