Episode Details

Ever wondered what really happens in those final moments before someone dies, or how a death doula can turn a family's grief into something meaningful? In this episode, I chat with Barb Ferguson, a seasoned end-of-life doula, about her hands-on work with dying, death, and everything after. It's raw, real, and full of insights that might just change how you think about the end of life.

Barb shares her journey from accountant to death doula, sparked by helping a family through a tragic accident. We dive into the nitty-gritty of after-death care at home, like using cooling methods to give families time to process without rushing to a funeral. She talks about the shifts she sees in families – how anxiety melts away, allowing space for connection and rituals, even simple things like tucking a hanky into a loved one's pyjamas. It's all about embracing the energy of death, from ancestors cheering on the dying to birds singing at the moment of passing.

We also explore voluntary assisted dying, where Barb's support has helped people live more fully, not just end sooner. She reflects on witnessing deaths, the common theme of people slipping away when no one's watching, and how doulas fill gaps in a stretched healthcare system. Barb's passion shines through, reminding us that by facing death head-on, we can live more authentically.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Barb's origin story: From a tragic accident to becoming a death doula.
• Hands-on after-death care: Cooling bodies at home and creating space for grief.
• The energy of dying: Ancestors, birds, and the quiet moments of transition.
• Family dynamics during end-of-life: How anxiety fades and connections deepen.
• Voluntary assisted dying: Real stories of choice and living fully.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

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MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?

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