The Moment Everything Changed

In 2018, I visited my parents in Florida. My mom was recovering from breast and uterine cancer, and my dad though in good health was in a wheelchair. Their house was too big, and I could see how exhausted my mom was, not just from illness, but from being the sole caregiver and manager of everything.

I suggested taking a year off from my job in LA to help them downsize. Before I even finished the sentence, my dad said, “YES.” My mom quietly admitted she felt overwhelmed and would welcome the support.

One Year Turned into Three

I left my career and moved across the country, thinking I’d be there for just one year. But soon after I arrived, my mom was diagnosed with multiple myeloma a treatable but incurable blood cancer.

That year turned into three. I sold their home, moved them into an apartment, and eventually helped transition them into assisted living something they initially resisted. After visiting several communities, we found one that felt right. Then COVID hit, and everything became more complicated. But we got through it.

Caregiving From Afar

Once they were settled, I moved to Denver to restart my own life. Still, I stayed deeply involved in their care managing bills and finances, securing legal documents, and having honest conversations about their wishes.

Even with all our planning, nothing truly prepares you for what comes next.

Saying Goodbye

In 2023, over Father’s Day weekend, my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 bladder cancer. He passed away just two weeks later. Five months after that, my mom died from lung cancer, in addition to the cancer she had managed for years.

I navigated their end-of-life care, estate documents, funerals, and the emotional weight of losing them both all while managing the family dynamics that come with it.

Why I Created Next Chapter Planning

That experience changed me. I realized how many adult children are caught off guard by the realities of aging parents uncertain about what to do, when to step in, or how to honor their loved ones’ wishes.

Next Chapter Planning exists to help people like you feel more prepared, supported, and confident through one of life’s most emotional and complex transitions.

You don’t have to do it alone.

I look forward to hearing from you,
Phyllis