Life in Ujjain was “happening”. Too many people visiting, festivals, gatherings, weddings and special occasions. I was breathing better in the October air since there’s much less humidity in Ujjain, but I was also unable to shower without oxygen. Climbing stairs and walking around the house were taxing. I couldn’t sleep one afternoon and kept thinking about all the people that died after transplants and wondered about my own survival rate. Maala, the Bangladeshi girl from one of my previous blogs had saturation levels as low as 35%. She had a stroke while she was enrolled in a medical college ..read more

It’s been a week since my husband passed and it still doesn’t feel real. I act as if he is just in the other room or on some trip. Any moment he’ll be back or I’ll get a text from him and everything will be just as it has been these past 3 years. Something I have discovered about myself is my “reaction to grief.” In writing I can be as vulnerable as I want to be because it’s a blank page or an audience that may or may not be there. I don’t have to worry about whether I sound too calm or too sad and I never risk making someone uncomfortable. Which is something I can’t do in person. When I’m aro ..read more

In the Southern United States, death and dying customs are not merely events but are deeply ingrained in the fabric of the region’s culture, history, and religious beliefs. Southern customs surrounding death reflect a unique blend of tradition, faith, and community spirit, shaping how individuals and communities navigate the journey from life to death. Southern Hospitality in Times of Loss Southern hospitality is renowned worldwide and extends even to times of loss. When death strikes a family in the South, neighbors, friends, and even strangers rally together to provide comfort, assistance, a ..read more

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Allow me to introduce Jessica Waters, a Licensed Addictions Counselor with a specialization in advanced grief counseling for death and dying, as well as an Integrated Mental Health Practitioner NEDA Proficient End of Life Doula. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Jessica offers invaluable support and guidance to individuals navigating the intricate landscape of grief. Through compassionate counseling techniques and a deep understanding of loss’s complexities, she empowers clients to navigate their grief journey with resilience and healing. Join us as we delve into her in ..read more

Last week I wrote in response to Matthew Parris’ article in the Times where he argued that not only should euthanasia be legalised but that if this led to social pressure on the terminally ill and vulnerable that this would be a welcome thing. My article was published online by Evangelicals Now and I also included it on the blog here. There have in recent years been increasing attempts to legalise euthanasia including through the courts and currently a private members’ bill has been proposed in the Scottish Parliament. One might argue that those legal efforts are more likely to bring about cha ..read more

In a world where conversations about death and estate planning are often met with discomfort or avoidance, a crucial need exists for education and guidance. Enter Tramaine Francis-Luster, a passionate advocate and educator on the importance of estate planning and funeral pre-need planning. With a wealth of experience and expertise in navigating these sensitive topics, Tramaine dedicates her efforts to empowering individuals and families to take proactive steps toward securing their legacies and honoring their final wishes. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the invaluable insights and ..read more

Death is a universal experience, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries to touch every corner of humanity. However, despite its universality, how death is understood and commemorated differs significantly across diverse societies and belief systems. From elaborate funeral processions to intimate mourning ceremonies, cultural interpretations of death reflect deeply rooted traditions and values unique to each community. These rituals not only serve as ways to honor the deceased but also provide comfort and support to the bereaved, reaffirming cultural beliefs about the afterlife and t ..read more

In the face of loss, traditional funeral services may not always capture the essence of a departed loved one’s spirit and unique personality. When embracing creativity, innovation, and individuality, the following suggested celebrations offer a departure from somber rituals, inviting friends and family to commemorate the joys, passions, and cherished memories of the deceased in truly unique and meaningful ways. Exploring novel approaches to celebrating life not only honors the legacy of the departed but also brings comfort, healing, and a sense of connection to those left behind. Memory Mosaic ..read more

I had the honor to have a heartfelt conversation with a wonderful lady who was a caregiver for her terminally ill Mom. In this moving exchange, we explore the challenges, triumphs, and profound insights that emerge from walking alongside a loved one on their end-of-life journey. From navigating the complexities of caregiving to finding moments of beauty and grace amid uncertainty, we delved into the raw emotions and experiences caregivers share in the face of loss and love. This is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the power of compassion amid life’s most challenging moments. You ..read more