If you don't already have an advance care plan in place, this is something you might like to consider discussing with a health professional involved in your care. Advance care planning (ACP) is a process through which you can think about how you would like to be cared for in the future, including at the end of life.

Advance care planning is relevant at all stages of MS, as it gives you a chance to talk through what might happen and what your treatment options might be. It's also a way of making your wishes known if you're ever in the position where you're unable to decide for yourself and you need someone else to do it on your behalf. However, it's especially pertinent to have a plan in place as you near the end of life so you can make your wishes known to your family and friends, and the health professionals involved in your care.

Advance care planning can help you prioritise what's important to you and make choices that help you maintain control over your life right to the end. It's a way to get your voice heard if you feel very strongly about something, such as a treatment you know you wouldn't want to have. You can identify who you want to be consulted about your care and to be there to support you. You could also specify where you'd prefer to be cared for, this might be in hospital, a hospice or at home, and where you'd like to die – this might be the same or different places. You can even include any funeral plans.

Remember, you'll still be given the best possible care, support and any appropriate medication to control symptoms to make you as comfortable as possible.

If you're not sure where to start with advance care planning, the MS Trust has a short guide called Thinking Ahead where you can find more information and a template statement that you can use. Both are available for free from our publications shop.