At the end of life, the capacity for absorbing educational or theoretical materials about dying may be diminished just when the need for beauty and meaning intensifies. It is also a time when crucial discussions about the dying process, life review, making preferences known and addressing emotional and spiritual issues are hugely important. Facing Death: A Companion in Words and Images was created precisely for such a time and to encourage such conversations. This slender volume features full-color nature photographs paired with brief messages, along with pages for journaling and a section to which personal photos, notes and cards may be attached. The book itself is a thing of beauty, owing to its photographic artistry: a spot of color in the day of someone facing death. That it also can be sampled at random, customized and provided to families makes it a resource of particular value to hospice and palliative care professionals and volunteers alike. This award-winning book is an unmatched gift for the dying. Please CLICK HERE to learn more about the book and also to become familiar with a very special blog designed to complement and extend the purposes of the book. Feedback on the book and contributions via comments on the blog would be gratefully received and considered.
Regards,
Linda Watson
Replies
Thanks, Joy. All the best in your own work!
Linda
Dear Linda,
The book looks and sounds like an incredible contribution to the dying experience, both for patient and family. How I wish it had been available during my care giving journey with my husband. There definitely was nothing as beautiful and heartwarming which could fill my heart and spirit - and his, as well.
Thank you for all you are doing for this cause.
My first book, derived from my journal entries during his two-year journey with liver disease, is titled From Fear to Faith, A Caregiver's Journey, and is endorsed by Hospice International. My heart is delighted to know that caregivers are being comforted from the validation found on the pages. It moves the reader from the "cities" of Disbelief and Despair into Acceptance, Farewell and finally, Triumph.
Now it is my pleasure to share the steps of this book during keynotes and conferences, workshops and retreats with hospice and home care staff and volunteers as well as their care giving families. My conferences are also relevant for Councils on the Aging and related agencies.
Blessings to you for the work you are doing!
Joy
Joyce Marie Sheldon
http://www.MyJoyToday.com
Oops! a goof after my signature: the correct URL for my blog is http://talkaboutdeath.net
Linda