We're writing today to those experiencing emergency surgery planning—a situation that brings immediate urgency to questions of legacy, final communications, and ensuring loved ones receive essential information. Emergency surgery patients face sudden, unexpected life-threatening situations with minimal time for preparation. The shock of urgent medical crisis combines with fear, anxiety about outcomes, and the desperate need to communicate critical information to loved ones before going into surgery.

You may be facing having only hours or minutes to create final messages and organize affairs This concern is both practical and deeply emotional, requiring careful attention to both the logistics of legacy planning and the human need for connection and closure.

You may be facing ensuring family knows critical account information and passwords immediately This concern is both practical and deeply emotional, requiring careful attention to both the logistics of legacy planning and the human need for connection and closure.

You may be facing communicating love and final wishes despite limited time and emotional overwhelm This concern is both practical and deeply emotional, requiring careful attention to both the logistics of legacy planning and the human need for connection and closure.

Focus immediately on a single message to your closest loved one or spouse. Include 'I love you' and the most urgent information they'll need - locations of important documents, account access, and who to contact for help. Create One Critical Message First provides a framework for this critical work. Your family will benefit immensely from having clear guidance during what will be an overwhelming time.

Quickly document your most critical passwords, bank accounts, insurance information, and emergency contacts. Even a basic list is better than nothing and can be lifesaving for your family managing affairs during a crisis. Record Essential Account Information provides a framework for this critical work. Your family will benefit immensely from having clear guidance during what will be an overwhelming time.

If you're pressed for time, record voice messages on your phone. Speaking is faster than typing and captures your voice, which becomes a precious gift to loved ones. Even a 2-minute voice message can convey essential information and love. Use Voice Recording for Speed provides a framework for this critical work. Your family will benefit immensely from having clear guidance during what will be an overwhelming time.

Tell the person with you (family member, friend, EMT) how to access your phone or digital legacy account. Give them a simple, clear instruction: 'If something happens to me, my messages are in DeathNote - here's how to access them.' Designate Immediate Access Contact provides a framework for this critical work. Your family will benefit immensely from having clear guidance during what will be an overwhelming time.

If you have additional time before surgery, add brief messages for children, parents, or siblings. Include any special requests for your care or funeral arrangements. Remember: something is always better than nothing. Add Details if Time Permits provides a framework for this critical work. Your family will benefit immensely from having clear guidance during what will be an overwhelming time.

Consider the specific challenges of your situation when creating messages. Your loved ones need to understand not just what you're asking them to do, but why it matters and how to accomplish it. Clear, detailed information reduces stress and confusion during crisis moments when clarity is most needed.