I believe that the final transition at the end of this life is sacred and can be peaceful and beautiful. How we prepare for the end of our lives can greatly determine the experience we have.

I believe that we need a more open conversation around death and dying and what it means to have a good death for each of us. No, that does not mean that I like or encourage death. It simply means that I feel we should be able to speak our wishes and have them honored all the way to the end without judgment.

I grew up with a lot of questions about death and dying, wondering why we didn’t talk much about it. Why was this such a taboo topic? We are all going to die one day, that much is certain. I recall being about ten years old and being left with my great-grandmother who I loved dearly and was dying of emphysema. I was terrified that she might die while I was alone with her and not know what to do, and I was afraid to ask about it for fear of upsetting my grandmother, who cared for her.

Who do we go to for answers when the conversation is continually shut down or never gets started? How do we get real information when our family or medical providers deny that we are dying and offer treatment after treatment rather than truth, respect, and dignity?

One of the greatest parts of my job is having these conversations with individuals at the end of life and their families. We lift the veil on the taboo, talk about all the feelings (for those who are willing), and lessen the fear around death. We talk about the truth and what they want for their final stage exit.

I get to know families and support them individually as needed. No two families are alike and, therefore, have unique needs. If you’re curious about what support might look like for you, book a free 20-minute call, and we’ll see if I can help.