Grief after the loss of a loved one can be funny when you think about it. We all face it at some point in our lives. Death and grief are universal experiences, yet they affect each of us individually. There are times when grief can consume us, making us feel that the pain will never…
Starting conversations about death and dying, especially with loved ones, can be challenging. It is okay to feel scared about having this conversation, whether sharing your thoughts or asking others about theirs. However, having conversations about death and dying can be made easier with understanding, empathy, and a few tips. Death is a natural part…
National Death Doula Day holds so much excitement and anticipation for me this year. I look back on the past two years and, while it feels like a lifetime ago, I still remember every step of the journey to get to where we are today. Working as an Elder Care Coordinator with Rothkoff Law Group,…
The Death with Dignity Act often sparks controversy and brings to the forefront important questions about the role of doctors in end-of-life care. The American Medical Association defines “death with dignity” or “medical aid in dying” (MAID) as when a physician offers “the necessary means and/or information” to assist a patient in choosing to end…
In the final stages of life, the decisions about where a loved one should spend their last moments become both deeply personal and profound. The transition from life to death is a delicate journey, and making informed choices about end-of-life care is crucial. One of the most important decisions to consider is whether to have…
Supporting a loved one facing death is a challenging and emotional journey. It can bring uncertainty, fear, and sadness, making the situation overwhelming. However, with some preparation, this experience can become more manageable and a time of connection and closeness. Watching someone you care about nearing the end of their life can trigger various…
The role of a death doula, also known as an end-of-life doula, is to support and improve the end-of-life experience for individuals and their families. Death doulas have been around for a long time, and their practices have deep historical roots. However, in recent years, the role of a death doula has gained recognition for…
Francis Bacon once said, “It is as natural to die as to be born.” Does the thought of that make you uncomfortable? If it does, you are not alone. Death is a very uncomfortable subject for many people. The fact that we will die someday is one thing we all have in common, so why…
Oregon has ended its residency requirement for the state’s physician-assisted suicide law, known as the Death with Dignity Act, as a result of a pending lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of its residency requirement. Previously, you must have been a citizen of Oregon in order to avail yourself of Oregon’s Death with Dignity Law. The lawsuit,…
Over Thanksgiving weekend, my family and I saw the new Pixar movie, Coco. The result of which is now I recall crying watching two animated Pixar films. Up, my all-time favorite Pixar movie, and now Coco. Like so many Pixar films before it, Coco indulges the belief that kids know best, while it’s up to adults to come…
