Deathbed Regrets: Nurse Reveals Common Wish of Dying Patients
A hospice nurse who has witnessed hundreds of deaths has revealed a common sentiment shared by many people as they approach the end of their lives. Julie McFadden, known as "Hospice Nurse Julie" on social media, has gained a large following by sharing her insights into death and helping to destigmatize the topic.
McFadden's experience working in both intensive care and hospice care has given her a unique perspective on the human experience of mortality. She has observed that many people express regret about two things:
Work: Many dying individuals wish they hadn't spent so much time dedicated to work. This is a common sentiment, especially given the pressure many people feel to maintain a certain lifestyle and financial security.
Health: However, the most common regret, according to McFadden, is a yearning for a deeper appreciation of their health while they had it. She explains, "The main thing people say, that I don't hear a lot of people mention, is 'I wish I would have appreciated my health'."
McFadden's experience has inspired her to practice gratitude in her own life. She writes a gratitude list every night, reminding herself of the things she often takes for granted, such as being able to breathe, walk, and feel the sun on her skin.
"I think the biggest thing I hear from people [who are] dying is that they wish they would have appreciated how well they felt before," she said.
McFadden believes it's crucial for people to understand the dying process and be prepared for it, both for themselves and their loved ones. She emphasizes that a deeper understanding of death can foster a greater appreciation for life and encourage individuals to live more fully in the present moment.
She urges people to recognize and appreciate the simple things in life, particularly their health, and to actively live a life filled with gratitude. By embracing these values, individuals can find greater meaning in their lives and potentially avoid some of the common regrets expressed by those facing their final moments.
