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Issue 33.10 Just like people who care for the physical needs of the dying bring with them their medical bag of instruments, supplies and medications, so those of us who are companions and caregivers must also bring our own “tools” of the trade for assisting […] Issue 28.10 A person dying from a terminal illness has time to reflect on their life. In some sense this is a blessing and a benefit compared to dying suddenly from a heart attack or a car/plane accident. This […] Issue 23.10 No matter what our religious or spiritual beliefs may be, coming to terms with death is difficult on all levels of our human and spiritual experience. There is a Universal Truth for all of us in the death of every person. This spiritual […] Issue 18.10 Dying is not only an individual experience but also a family and community happening. Just like birth it has a dramatic effect on all those who share and participate in the event. Often we are perplexed as […] Issue 14.10 A recent study published in the “Journal of Clinical Oncology” showed the overwhelming need and desire for spiritual counseling and support to cancer patients in improving their quality of life. The study done by the Harvard Radiation Oncology Program showed a significant difference […] Issue 11.10 Perhaps the idea of befriending death sounds absurd to some whose thoughts are far from death. But for folks who are faced with a terminal illness and their caregivers, an idea such as making friends with the scepter of death might bring some […] Issue 52.09 As I write this, it’s a week before Christmas. Most of us are still scurrying around to purchase those final gifts for family and friends. As I reflect on the meaning and sacredness of this holy season, my mind turns towards the spiritual […] Issue 46.09 Making our “final arrangements” is one of the things we will all have to face sooner or later. This becomes a more immediate concern for someone who is on hospice. Often a patient will discuss this matter with me and indicate their wish […] Issue 41.09 “Stop! I don’t want to talk about death and dying.” “Don’t even mention the words in front of my mother, father, etc.” I often hear these comments from families of hospice patients. Death and dying are not topics of conversation we are comfortable […] Issue 30.09 Often people hesitate to be on Hospice because they think it means “the end” – either for themselves or a loved one. Nothing could be further from the truth. The purpose of Hospice is to help people to live life “full-out” until the […] |
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