Hoping for the best, planning for the worst
Many people with liver disease live for many years, often without serious symptoms. A serious diagnosis like liver failure though, means that it is a sensible idea to plan for what could happen if you become more ill. Patients are often worried about what could happen to them if they are not able to make their own decisions. They want to be sure that their wishes will be followed and that their loved ones are looked after.
It is a sensible idea to sort out paperwork at an early stage. Make a list of all your assets and/or debts, and file these carefully. Include things like property deeds and investments, as well as details of bank and savings accounts. Think about who you would like to take care of your affairs if you were not able to look after them yourself. If you feel able, ask their permission and tell them where you keep your files. If you have young children, pets or other caring responsibilities, think about what arrangements should be made for them if you became more unwell.
It is very important to make a legally valid will, witnessed by two people who are not relatives or benefiting from the will. It should set out who you want to leave your assets to, if you have any preferences for funeral arrangements and who you want to sort out your affairs after your death. It is best to consult a solicitor for legal advice, but there are also kits you can buy off the internet or at stationer shops. If you become sleepy, unconscious or need to take strong drugs that can affect your brain, you may not be legally competent to sign a will. It is therefore a good idea to make and sign your will while you are still well.
Some people want to have a say in medical decisions made for them when they are too ill to consent at the time, for example because they are unconscious or during an operation. You can make a legally binding decision called an advanced directive (sometimes called a living will). This can include your wishes about your treatment and even the circumstances where you would like to refuse treatment. You can get a legal document, called an enduring power of attorney, that will enable someone you nominate to take legal decisions, including on your care and treatment, on your behalf. Setting up a power of attorney is important if you would like someone to be able to administer your financial affairs for you. These are major steps, and it is important to consider them carefully. If you feel able, discuss them with those closest to you, your medical team and a solicitor, if possible.