Jennifer O'Brien, author of "The Hospice Doctor's Widow," joins the podcast to share her deeply personal story of caregiving for her terminally ill husband, Bob. A hospice physician himself, Bob's diagnosis of advanced renal cell carcinoma forced them to confront their own mortality and navigate the healthcare system together. Jennifer, equipped with her own experiences with loss and a career in healthcare administration, played a vital role in planning for Bob's end-of-life wishes and her future.




Their journey wasn't solely focused on medical procedures and appointments. Jennifer highlights the concept of "Precious Time" - a term Bob coined to describe the irreplaceable moments left with a terminally ill loved one. She emphasizes the profound significance of these moments, fostering emotional connection and expression in a way that transcends the challenges of the situation. Their proactive approach, characterized by open communication and practical planning, not only ensured Bob's wishes were met but also enriched the quality time they shared. Even after Bob's passing, Jennifer finds solace in the plans he made for her well-being, a testament to his love and foresight.




Driven by her experience and a desire to help others, Jennifer has poured her grief and learnings into "The Hospice Doctor's Widow." This powerful book sheds light on family caregiving and end-of-life planning, advocating for open communication and a balanced approach between hope and reality when facing terminal illness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing a similar situation, offering invaluable insights, practical tips, and the comforting reminder that even in the face of loss, love and connection can leave an enduring impact.




About Jennifer:




In her 35+ years in healthcare, Jennifer O’Brien has served as a practice management consultant to physicians, CEO for two large medical practices, and held administrative roles in three academic medical centers. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s in Organization Development from Loyola University – Chicago. Jennifer has authored 50+ articles in professional publications and peer-reviewed journals.




Her art journal, kept during her late husband's 22-month illness, was published as The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal in February 2020. It has won several awards, including a Nautilus silver award in the Death & Dying/Grief & Loss category, a Next Gen Indie Book gold for Relationships, an IPPY bronze for Gift, and an International Impact gold for the book's interior design. Jennifer now shares her story, wisdom, and experience to help others understand the role of family caregivers and the importance of end-of-life preparations.




Connect with Jennifer:




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