It is true that we only notice what we are aware of. Without awareness, there is no scope for learning. It is all a part of our human curiosity.
While curiosity may be the birth, learning may be sustenance, and knowledge may be death. As in all things, death is a part of the package deal called life which we all must ultimately accept, for we have no control over it.

I am extremely sorry to hear about your husband. I hope he finds peace in his final hours in this world.