Hospice Nurse Shares Remarkable Last Wishes That Most People Have On Their Deathbeds

Death is a topic most of us avoid like the plague—pun intended. It’s something we don’t think about, talk about, or even want to consider until it becomes unavoidable.

The irony is that death is the one universal certainty we all share, yet it’s cloaked in mystery, fear, and often, silence. However, Julie McFadden, a hospice nurse, is on a mission to change that.

Julie is not your typical nurse. Sure, she’s dedicated to her patients and their care, but she’s also on a mission to educate the world about dying. With over 1.5 million TikTok followers and a book under her belt, Julie uses her platform to demystify what happens at the end of life.

But she’s not all clinical facts and somber tones. Julie shines a light on the natural beauty of the dying process, hoping to alleviate fears and help people live—and die—better.

The stories Julie shares aren’t just informative; they’re transformative. They push us to ask the uncomfortable questions: What really matters in the end? What would we wish we had done differently? And most importantly, what can we learn from those who have walked the road before us?

Scroll down if you'd like to hear Julie's thoughts...

For years, Nurse Julie has walked alongside those at life’s edge.

YouTube/Hospice Nurse Julie

Through her years of experience, Julie has witnessed hundreds of people take their final breaths. Despite the diversity of her patients—different ages, backgrounds, and stories—two wishes consistently echo from their deathbeds.

The first is startling in its simplicity yet profound in its implications: “I wish I didn’t spend so much time at work.” It’s a sentiment we hear often but rarely take seriously until it’s too late. In a society that glorifies hustle culture and celebrates busyness, this regret hits hard.

For Julie, hearing this repeatedly reinforced how vital it is to strike a balance between ambition and living a life that fulfills us in other, deeper ways.

The second wish Julie hears even more often is one we might not expect: “I wish I would have appreciated my health.” Health, as they say, is wealth. Yet, how often do we take the time to celebrate the simple joys of being well? Breathing effortlessly, feeling the sun on our skin, moving without pain—these everyday miracles go unnoticed until illness strips them away.

Julie has taken this lesson to heart, creating a nightly gratitude list to remind herself of the small blessings in her life. It’s a habit she recommends for anyone wanting to avoid this common regret. “I like the fact that I can breathe, I’m walking around, I can feel the sunshine,” she shared. “Little things like that.”

The Importance of Open Conversations

Dr. Atul Gawande, renowned author and surgeon, emphasizes the need for open discussions about death in his book, *Being Mortal*. He argues that having honest conversations about end-of-life wishes can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients and families alike.

By addressing fears and uncertainties, we allow individuals to express their true desires, leading to more meaningful final moments. Gawande's research suggests that healthcare providers should routinely engage patients in dialogues surrounding their values and preferences, making it easier for families to navigate difficult decisions.

Julie has noticed a striking pattern in the final wishes of those nearing the end of their lives.

YouTube/Hospice Nurse Julie

For Julie, her mission isn’t just about preparing people for death—it’s about encouraging them to embrace life more fully. By pulling back the veil on the dying process, she gives us a gift that’s equal parts sobering and inspiring: the opportunity to live with intention.

So, what will you take away from her wisdom? Perhaps it’s time to pause, breathe, and appreciate the simple things. Because in the end, it’s often those simple things that mean the most.

Psychologist Dr. Barry Schwartz highlights the emotional benefits of reflecting on life's regrets as a means to foster gratitude and acceptance. He notes that many individuals express wishes related to relationships, love, and forgiveness during their final moments.

Schwartz's studies indicate that taking time to reflect on what truly matters can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life. He advocates for practices such as journaling or guided discussions, which allow people to explore their feelings and mend relationships while they still have the opportunity, ultimately enriching their final days.

Psychological Framework & Solutions

Understanding and embracing the inevitability of death can help individuals and families navigate their final moments with greater clarity and peace. Experts like Dr. Gawande and Dr. Schwartz encourage us to engage in proactive conversations about our wishes and regrets, fostering deeper connections and emotional healing.

By implementing practices such as open dialogues and reflective exercises, we can transform our relationship with mortality. This shift not only benefits those nearing the end of life but also enriches the lives of their loved ones, promoting a more compassionate approach to one of life's most challenging realities.