February is the month known for love. With Valentine’s Day and World Cancer Day, we are reminded to care for ourselves and those we cherish—especially in creative ways. Thinking about end-of-life concerns isn’t anyone’s idea of a cozy conversation, but getting your affairs in order is one of the kindest gifts you can give to your loved ones.

By ensuring your loved ones have what they need when the time comes, you can make tough choices easier for them and allow them to focus on love and peace of mind.

Estate Planning: A Loving Legacy

Estate planning is more than simply writing a will. There are four essential documents that make up a complete estate plan, and thankfully, they don’t need to be complicated.

1) Last Will & Testament

This outlines your desires for how your assets should be distributed following your death. The recipients of your assets are called beneficiaries. A will can also designate guardians for minor children and identify the individual you’ve asked to serve as the executor of your estate. The executor is responsible for ensuring your wishes are followed.

The simplest form of a will is a “holographic” or handwritten will, which doesn’t require witnesses or lawyers. Another option is a Revocable Living Trust with a pour-over will, which can give you more control over your assets and may help avoid probate.

2) Financial Power of Attorney

This document identifies the individual you trust to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. It is only active while you are living.

3) Healthcare Power of Attorney

This is often combined with an Advanced Healthcare Directive and a Living Will. Together, these documents outline your healthcare preferences and designate someone to carry out your wishes if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. A healthcare POA can be a permanent document or one that’s temporarily invoked while traveling or undergoing a medical procedure.

4) Letter of Intent

This optional document states specific directions regarding tangible assets, funeral arrangements, and any other personal matters. For example, you might use this to request that your neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis be listed as a co-morbidity on your death certificate. It’s essential to make your physician aware of this request, as it could be important for future research into the genetics of neuroendocrine cancer.

Taking the Next Steps

Once you’ve identified the necessary estate planning documents, it’s time to create their content. Start by making an inventory of your financial accounts, investments, and debts. Include contact information, account numbers, and details about assets that may be exempt from probate, such as life insurance policies or jointly titled items. Make sure these accounts have beneficiary designations or consider adding a trusted individual to your banking accounts for immediate access.

Some states offer specific tools, such as a Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed, which can transfer home or car ownership outside of probate. Be sure to research your state’s rules regarding inheritance, powers of attorney, and account co-signers.

Communicating with Your Executor

The executor of your estate plays a critical role. They will need to:

• Be willing to carry out your wishes.

• Understand your designations.

• Request the correct number of death certificates for account transfers or closures.

• Settle bills and other financial matters.

To support your executor, provide them with a list of login credentials, the location of life insurance policies, and titles of ownership. Clear communication is key.

A Loving Legacy

While this can be a difficult topic, taking the time to get your affairs in order is a powerful act of love. Talk to those you’ve designated, as well as others who may have questions about your decisions, to avoid confusion or hurt feelings. This ensures that your family can focus on celebrating your life and love rather than navigating complicated decisions during a challenging time.

By organizing your final wishes, you’ll find peace of mind knowing you’ve given your loved ones a thoughtful, organized path forward. Proceed step by step, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

This February, let your love extend beyond the present moment by bringing comfort and clarity to those you care about most.

Honor World Cancer Day

NCAN invites you to acknowledge World Cancer Day this month with a donation to the NCAN Gene Woltering Scholarship Fund. Dr. Woltering’s acts of love, compassion, and care for the neuroendocrine community are a legacy we hope to continue. Your donation is a meaningful way to show love, honor those we’ve lost, and support the ongoing fight against neuroendocrine cancer. Together, we can make a difference—one step, one act of kindness, one shared vision at a time.

DONATE HERE

Remember, NCAN is always here for you. Whether you need resources, support, or just someone to listen, reach out to us at info@netcancerawareness.org.

Find out more about how YOU can help the NET Community.