If you’ve had that David Bowie song stuck in your head lately, you’re not alone. This summer has been a season of changes in my world, and honestly, I think that’s true for a lot of us.
Several weeks ago, my son graduated from high school. Last week, he turned 18. Next month, we’ll drop him off at college.
And just like that, he’s legally an adult —which means I can no longer make medical or financial decisions on his behalf without his permission. So we’re doing what I tell my clients to do: we’re executing a Financial Power of Attorney and a Healthcare Power of Attorney with an attorney before he leaves.
Let that sink in for a second.
The kid who still asks me what’s for dinner needs estate planning documents. Not because anything is wrong. Not because we’re expecting the worst. But because that’s what turning 18 actually means, legally speaking, and most families have no idea until they need it.
If you have a newly minted adult in your life, this is your sign. Work with an experienced trust and estate attorney to get a Financial and Healthcare Power of Attorney in place before they head out the door — you’ll both be glad you did.
It’s one of those things I talk about with clients all the time, and somehow it still snuck up on me. Change has a way of doing that.
Speaking of change — AfterLight is growing.
I’m thrilled to introduce Amber Holcombe, AfterLight’s newest After Loss Consultant. Amber brings over 20 years of experience managing complex situations, tight timelines, and detailed records — and more importantly, she brings the kind of steady, reassuring presence that families need most when they’re navigating loss.
Her background is both professional and deeply personal. She’s been a landlord, a foster parent, and a community leader. She knows what it means to show up for people when things are hard. She completed her After Loss Professional Training through PALS in 2025, and I couldn’t be more glad to have her on the team.
Whether she’s stepping in as a project manager or just helping someone get their arms around what needs to happen next, Amber’s goal is to make things feel more manageable and less isolating.
Mine too. That’s why we’re here.
If you’ve been thinking about getting things in order — for yourself, or for a newly minted adult in your life, reach out. I’d love to help.
Change is coming whether we’re ready or not. Might as well be ready.
