A list to consider, just in case

Two things happened last week to precipitate this letter. First, I am an estate planning attorney and my office received calls from people asking how to prepare in case they are hospitalized with COVID-19. Second, I received a message from an attorney friend in South Carolina whose wife is battling COVID-19 in intensive care.

My friend conveyed how hard it is having to rely on updates from the heavily burdened medical staff. When he finally reached a nurse at 2 a.m. Tuesday, he said, she told him that his wife wanted to call him on her cellphone earlier. But she was heavily sedated and couldn't remember her unlock code. That struck a chord with me. We're not prepared for hospital admissions during which our family and friends aren't allowed to visit or stay with us.

Since we can't rely on family to bring us stuff, we have to be prepared. So, while I pray no one has to use this list, I created one.

Here some items to put in your overnight bag in case hospitalization becomes necessary:

• Documents and paperwork secured in a clearly labeled folder or large envelope, including copies of key legal documents:

• Health Care Power of Attorney;

• HIPAA Authorization (identifies who can have access to your medical records);

• Living Will and Durable Financial Power of Attorney.

• List of medicines and allergies, insurance information, eyeglasses, hearing aids, etc.

• Cellphone (with unlock code taped to it), phone charger, extension cord, headphones, and passwords for websites or apps you may need to access.

• Pajamas, robe, nonslip socks, cardigan, and slippers.

• Lip balm, moisturizer, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb and brush.

• Reading material, Sudoko, or whatever small thing makes you happy.

Amina Saeed

Naperville