Ed Dobson – Finding Meaning in the Difficult

Estate Planning is About So Much More

My Garden – Ed Dobson’s Story

Nationally known pastor Ed Dobson was diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Initially, Dobson, like most others, was overwhelmed by the diagnosis. He admitted to having difficulty praying or reading the Bible.

Dobson has redefined life for many dealing with the challenges of illness and dying. He has set a heroic example of hope for so many.

Dobson was given 3-5 years to live, 11 years ago. Never give up hope when you or a loved one faces health challenges.

Dobson had preached to 5,000+ on a Sunday, but could no longer do so. He did not stop preaching. He began to minister on a one to one basis. He did not give up, he transformed.

Dobson wrote a book on living with serious illness. He began to share the lessons he himself was learning through his challenges.

What does all this have to do with estate planning? Everything.

• Focus on what is really important. Wills and estate plans are not a place for revenge.
• Estate planning should be about the transmission of values, not merely wealth.
• Find ways to heal. Life is short and fragile for all of us.
• Don’t make an estate plan about the formalities of a will. Open up and think deeply about people and causes important to you. Communicate those feelings through a heartfelt letter, bequest, or charitable gifts.