Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Listening With Empathy


--by melnotes, posted Oct 3, 2020
Last night I had the privilege to sit with a man of 80 who has dementia but senses his imminent death, he spoke of the spirits who visit him namely his grandmother and how he used to be scared but wasn't anymore, he joked about how he would rather have visits from the living not the dead.

I felt very humbled to be part of this conversation with him as I have a passion for End of Life Care and exploring spirituality within my work I am also a strong advocate for a more Palliative approach to Dementia Care.

It was a wonderful experience taking the time to just listen allowing him to express his thoughts, validating his feelings and hopefully allowing him to find that peace within as he makes the journey towards the end of his life.
 
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Readers Comments

Susan Pearson wrote: Melnotes, this is what has compelled me to work with end of life folks. I am a certified eol doula and feel that this is my calling in life. It is a priviledge to be with those at end of life.
mindyjourney wrote: Very strong and insightful post, my friend. Indeed, what a blessing it is to bear witness to a transition in progress. Thank you for all you do, it makes a huge difference <3 <3.
debbe530 wrote: End of life witnessing is such a gift melnotes. Blees you for the work you are doing.
Twilight wrote: 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
pluto178 wrote: I had a 90 year old neighbour dying of cancer who signed a DNR but when push came to shove she asked me to get it removed as she wanted to live to take in as many breaths on this beautiful Earth as she could.....we removed it and she died that afternoon and it was a privilege to be with her as she passed away..........every minute of life is precious never waste it. x
wavingatyou wrote: (((((Mel)))) beautiful souls <3
DotMatrix wrote: Mel your post made me start crying like a child and I have no idea why. What a gift you are to the world. Thank you for sharing this post.
mish wrote: You do sacred work. Bless x
DeePee wrote: I'm sure he was grateful to have you by his side.

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