God, I hate to ask this…


Recent conversations with the oncologist have been replete with phrases like ‘stage 4’,metastasis’ and unappealing statistics applied to survival rates. While my real and financial affairs are well settled I am most perplexed with how to approach this large pile of audio stuff e.g. 3 secondary systems in addition to the primary one, several thousand lp’s, a similar number of CD’s/SACD’s, a closet full of cable etc. I am utterly confident that I am not alone in this. While I am comfortable that my wife will love and care for my dog I am less confident that the Avantgardes will elicit such emotional investment. Although my immediate inclination is to cling desperately to these treasured objects it seems patently unfeeling to expect someone else to deal with all of this. My wife will have enough to do. I could just divest myself of much of it and depend on the collection of headphones that I began to amass during the first illness. I really don’t want to do this. I would also like to pre-bequeath much of it to friends assuming that they wanted it but all of them have been adamant in their refusal to discuss this with me and probably will remain so until the 11th hour. As childlike as it seems, I am emotionally invested in these fruits of a lifelong passion and want them to end up where they will be respected and loved . This seems to be a juncture that we will all come to. I would be grateful to hear the contemplations that all you have had in this, admittedly, sobering matter. 
To all of you, good cheer and good health.

 

williamjohnston

I have one more year to go before I can call myself a survivor. 4 years in remission and not a day goes by I don't think of it. It is a very lonely and introspective road that has changed the way I approach life. I no longer waste time. As other have said here...... clinical drugs and therapies have allowed cancer patients to live many years after this absolutely awful disease. God does listen , prayers are very powerful but I am sure in one way or another you already know that. 

Like ; foggyus91 has mentioned and I will second his recommendation ; contact TMR / The Music Room and speak with Simon or Raymond as they are great to work with. I have used them the past few times I have had something to sell here in order to avoid some of the nonsense and fees of selling something here. Yes their charge is steep but they will pick it up for you for free using Fed-Ex and in a couple of weeks send you a check. Easy and no hassles. 

I kept the receipts of my purchases and wrote down the cost of my system in the event of death as well as fire , flood etc.....I sealed the envelope ( after each new purchase  )  and told my wife in the note in the envelope that in event I am gone this is what the system is worth. She will at least have an idea and knows about TMR.....  

I do understand but just a little of where you are in life as it such a lonely road but one that you are always constantly reminded of. However, as other have said make few calls and enjoy your life e and your friends and family and hopefully with the Grace of God ......we all here will be talking to you in the years to come. Peace ....    

 

My thoughts are with you.  A good audio dealer relationship can help your spouse with fair and easy relocation of your equipment.  We should all know someone we trust by now.  Best of luck.  Don’t get rid of what you love.  TMR requires a bit of work packing and sending.

Sorry to hear about your health issues.  Hope all goes well.  As far as your equipment I’ve had similar thoughts as I prepare for the inevitable.  I told my wife and kids to not just have a yard sale to get rid of all of my equipment and physical music.  Not sure they will follow through so I asked my friend that is into eBay and FB Marketplace to help sell the more expensive stuff so at least the family get something back.  The hobby will pass with me.  Such is life.  One of my kids will take my boat and the other my Pats tickets so my other two hobbies are in good hands.  Be well and rock on.  

My thoughts are with you as well.  Over the years I worked with many patients who were facing end of life decisions.  I learned it is prudent to make plans while you can; but to still hold onto the things that bring you joy and comfort while you are still here.   I think a spread sheet such as lalitk suggested is a great start.  You might want to include instructions as to which friends you would like to bequeath your treasures to, once you are gone.  That will create a legacy of joyful memories amongst your friends, provide you with some comfort while you battle your illness and lessen the work your survivors will have left to do.  I also learned in my work that your doctors and nurses have no way of predicting the future.  One never knows how each individual will respond to treatment.  That and the advent of newer immunologically based treatments can greatly impact your near future.  So enjoy your treasures while you have them and don't give up the fight.  And thanks for sharing your thoughts with your electronic community.  Your comments may help many others ( and all of us at some point ) deal with the issues of living.