Sheila Burke - Sheila Burke, Death Doula

Confronting Fears with a Terminal Diagnosis

Confronting fears amidst a terminal diagnosis may seem daunting, but it holds profound benefits. Not only for individuals facing this challenging journey, but also those grieving from a loss. First, let’s look at how confronting our fears can help those with a terminal diagnosis: Empowerment Through Acceptance: Accepting the reality empowers individuals to shape their…… Continue reading Confronting Fears with a Terminal Diagnosis

Planning an At-Home Funeral

Planning an at-home funeral involves several steps. Here’s a general guide: Check Local Regulations: Verify local laws and regulations regarding home funerals. Some places may have specific requirements or restrictions. Obtain Necessary Permits: If required, obtain the necessary permits for home burial or cremation. This may involve contacting local authorities or health departments. Prepare the…… Continue reading Planning an At-Home Funeral

Why ‘Lost Their Battle’ is the Wrong Thing to Say

While these expressions may be well-intentioned, they can have unintended consequences when speaking to someone with a life-limiting illness, disease, or disorder, like cancer. Here’s why: Implies Blame for the Illness: Phrases like “you can fight this because you are strong” may unintentionally suggest that if the person were stronger, they could avoid or overcome…… Continue reading Why ‘Lost Their Battle’ is the Wrong Thing to Say

Need to Plan a Funeral? Here’s a Checklist

Here’s a checklist to help you plan a funeral: Legal Considerations:Check local laws and regulations regarding funerals.Obtain necessary permits for burial or cremation. Budget:Establish a budget for the funeral expenses. Choose a Funeral Director or Decide on DIY:Decide whether to hire a funeral director or handle arrangements independently. Select a Venue:Choose a venue for the…… Continue reading Need to Plan a Funeral? Here’s a Checklist

How to Balance Hope and Realistic Expectation

Balancing hope and realistic expectations when diagnosed with a terminal illness is a delicate and personal process. Here are some strategies to navigate this challenging situation: Open Communication: Talk to Healthcare Providers: Engage in open and honest conversations with healthcare providers. Understand the prognosis, potential treatments, and the expected trajectory of the illness. Insist on…… Continue reading How to Balance Hope and Realistic Expectation

Caregivers: How to Navigate the Waves of Helplessness

Witnessing a loved one’s decline from a terminal illness can be an overwhelming journey. Here are six tips to navigate the waves of helplessness with compassion: 1. Embrace Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel helpless. Allow yourself to experience the full range of emotions without judgment. Embracing vulnerability is a courageous step in the healing…… Continue reading Caregivers: How to Navigate the Waves of Helplessness

How to Help a Child Cope when a Loved One is Terminally Ill

Coping with the impact of a loved one’s terminal illness on children in the family requires a delicate and supportive approach: 1. Open Communication: – Honesty: Be honest with children in an age-appropriate manner about the situation. Use simple language and answer their questions with sensitivity. – Encourage Expression: Create a safe space…… Continue reading How to Help a Child Cope when a Loved One is Terminally Ill

Best Resolution of the New Year

Practicing gratitude can have a profound impact on mental, emotional, and physical health: 1. Mental Health: Positive Outlook: Gratitude helps shift focus from what might be lacking to recognizing and appreciating what is present, fostering a more positive outlook on life. Reduced Stress: Expressing gratitude has been linked to lower levels of stress…… Continue reading Best Resolution of the New Year

Being Honest is NOT Giving UP!

Being honest with your diagnosis when facing a terminal illness is crucial for several reasons: 1. Effective Communication: Understanding the Reality: Being honest allows both the individual and their loved ones to understand the gravity of the situation. It provides clarity and avoids misunderstandings. 2. Emotional Connection: Building Trust: Openness fosters trust among family members…… Continue reading Being Honest is NOT Giving UP!

Is There Closure in Grief?

Several factors contribute to the perception that closure is elusive in grief: 1. Continuing Connection: Grief experts emphasize the concept of continuing bonds. Rather than closing a chapter, individuals find ways to maintain a connection with the deceased through memories, rituals, and ongoing relationships. 2. Nonlinear Nature of Grief: Grief is not a…… Continue reading Is There Closure in Grief?