Personal relationships and communication messages at the end of life.

The diagnosis of advanced illness often brings with it an element of limited time. Being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and facing death can evoke many painful emotions including anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty. However, it can also create the potential for profound growth and transformation. The end of life is a time-intensive crucible in which patients and family members have important things to express to one another. Embedded in this time are 2 elements of daily functioning: personal relationships and communication. Having conversations about the relationship and communicating love, gratitude, and/or forgiveness may have potential benefits for the dying person and those considered close and important.