Health

How planning ahead helped Paul and Heather’s health crisis

Sponsored by Advance Care Planning Australia

Matt Lennon

Mar 05, 2026

For Paul and Heather, their Advance Health Directive was a document that "speaks in the silence".

When Paul collapsed at a community event last August, his life changed in an instant.

The 71-year-old retired engineer had always been active, with jazz music, family time, and caring for his grandchildren filling his days. But a sudden cardiac arrest reminded Paul and his wife Heather why planning ahead matters.

Thanks to quick-thinking bystanders trained in CPR and a defibrillator on site, Paul survived. What followed was intense: three heart operations in nine days and 18 days in hospital.

Years earlier, Paul and Heather had completed their advance care planning documents, including an Advance Health Directive (AHD).

“We did it when we retired,” Heather explains. “It gave us peace of mind and clarity, not just for us, but for our family. We didn’t want them to be put on the spot one day.”

“For me,” Paul agreed, “it was an opportunity to speak into how I would wish to be cared for, given circumstances that could realistically happen. I never expected to need it so soon.”

A gift in uncertain times

When Paul was unconscious for 18 hours, Heather faced a moment of truth.

“One of the hospital staff asked if Paul had any advance care planning. My immediate reaction was relief and gratitude,” she recalls. “We were under extreme stress. Knowing his wishes meant I didn’t have to make those decisions on my own.”

Watch Heather and Paul’s story:

Paul calls his AHD “a document that speaks in the silence.

“It gave confidence and certainty to Heather and our family,” he said. “It’s a true gift, something that speaks when you can’t.”

Heather agrees. “It allowed us to spend meaningful time together instead of stressful discussions about what to do. Our family could gather around Paul without that burden.”

Why advance care planning matters

Paul believes advance care planning is one of the most important things you can do for those you love.

“You never know when it’s going to be needed,” he says. “It’s a beautiful gift to those who may have to implement it.”

Heather’s advice is simple: “Don’t put it off. No matter your age, if you have family or people you love, it’s a good idea.”

Today, Paul is back home, enjoying mornings with jazz and time with his grandchildren. His message is clear: “Life can change in an instant, so plan ahead.”