For years, I heard my mom, Janis A. Carney, talk about the need for estate planning and the difficulties families encounter when a loved one develops a serious and debilitating illness unexpectedly. Everyone is affected by these arcs in life. My own family is no exception. My mother-in-law suffered a stroke in 2009, transforming her from a vibrant woman who could still ski black diamonds at the age of 69, into someone who needed intensive care and assistance with daily living. Within a few years, it became apparent that her primary care-giver, her husband/my father-in-law, was experiencing dementia, and his ability to care for her, their home, and their finances was beyond his capacity.
During the years that followed, I became acutely aware of the need for trusted and caring advisors in this area, the lack of resources available, and the growing need for attorneys and others who specialize in helping families navigate the process.
