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What if facing unimaginable loss could inspire unprecedented hope? Join us as we welcome Richard and Nikki Bowdidge, parents of the founder of a life-changing charity, a charity born from the heartbreak of their son Tom's cancer journey. Hear their compelling story of transforming grief into action, raising £1.7 million over a decade to support teenagers and young adults with cancer. Discover how they've funded critical research and created welcoming hospital spaces tailored for young patients.

Navigating the waters of loss is never straightforward, but through candid reflections and personal anecdotes, we explore how authenticity and supportive relationships can offer strength during the darkest times. Learn the importance of being real with your grief, discussing death with children, and planning personalized funeral arrangements that honor the unique spirit of a loved one. This segment underscores the power of community support and the healing that comes from open, honest conversations about death.

Fundraising for healthcare and social services presents its own set of hurdles, and this episode dives into the strategies and challenges of managing these financial strains. Discover the impact of skyrocketing demand for social workers and the unpredictable nature of funding. We also highlight the compassionate contributions of organizations such as funeral directors John J Smith and like Co-op Funeral Services, which provide free funerals for under-18s. This episode is a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the relentless pursuit of support for those in need and the unbridled altruism of Richard and Nikki Bowdidge

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Discover the tender intersection of hospice and funeral care with Clare Montagu of Poppy's Funerals, where we delve into how her experiences shape a more compassionate approach to saying goodbye. As we sit down with this insightful CEO, you'll learn about the importance of personalized services for the bereaved and the deceased, the profound effects of family experiences on funeral arrangements, and why empathy and transparency are non-negotiable in this field. Join us for a conversation that will not only illuminate the seamless continuity of care from end-of-life services to the crafting of final farewells but will also reinforce the vital need to honor the individuality of each journey.

Embarking on a journey through the nuances of funeral care, we unpack the misunderstood practice of embalming, its true necessity, and the alternatives that can offer families comfort and choice. Clare Montagu enlightens us on the pressures that may arise from within the funeral industry. We dissect the chilling reminder from Hull's unfortunate events, emphasizing the paramount significance of transparency for trust-building and the benefits of open-door policies in funeral homes that invite families into the process, ensuring surpassing standards of care.

Finally, we tackle the cultural shyness surrounding conversations about death and how humor and education can bridge the gap. As we discuss the efforts to engage new generations in understanding mortality, we find that laughter might just be the unexpected companion in breaking the silence. The conversation also spotlights the unsettling lack of regulation in parts of the funeral industry, hinting at the potential for licensing and new technologies to enhance care standards. For those eager to navigate these profound topics further, Clare directs us to Poppy's Funerals' rich resources and blog – a trove of wisdom for anyone seeking to demystify the journey of death and dying.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Dr. Tim Leeson joins me, Jason Cattrell, to unveil the layers of his role as the spirituality lead for St Helena. We delve into the essence of conversations in hospice settings, where the focus shifts from spirituality to heartfelt discussions about what the patient wants to talk about. He deftly explains the importance of person lead conversations that only touch on ones spiritual or / and religious questions. As he says "My team and I are not there to preach, we are there to listen and help reflect.

Our conversation transcends the confines of a typical podcast, touching on the professional dynamics of healthcare chaplaincy and the art of providing both structured and spontaneous support in palliative care.  Everyone's needs are different and that is the most important thing for us all to recognise and listen to.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Discover the empowering story of Dr. Liz O’Riordan, a breast cancer surgeon turned patient, who talks about the truth behind her dual identity in the realm of medicine. Our latest episode takes you through Liz's personal transition, delving into her fight against the very disease she once treated. As she navigates the stormy seas of breast cancer, her early retirement due to treatment complications, and the sexism she faced in her career, Liz holds nothing back. She's turned her trials into a beacon of hope and understanding, using writing and social media to connect with and support others, while challenging myths that cloud the realities of living with cancer. She has written Co written The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer with Professor Trisha Greenhalgh and Under the knife, her own personal memoir.

Step into Liz's world beyond the hospital as she shares the joy she finds in exercise, her familial 'jar of joy,' and the therapeutic release of blogging and podcasting. It's an intimate glimpse into how she's reshaped her life around health and happiness, maintaining her identity through fitness endeavors like triathlons and icy river swims, while also indulging in the art of baking (I want that muffin recipe!). This episode is an inspiring look at how she balances self-care, connecting with a community that understands her struggle, and staying active in charitable work, all while advocating for the crucial link between fitness and health.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Can you imagine the pain of losing a loved one to suicide, compounded by a lack of resources, support, and societal understanding? We know this struggle is very real for many, and today's episode offers an intimate exploration of this heartrending journey. Our brave guest and my friend, Jenny Ruffle, shares her deeply moving story of her husband Barrie's battle with mental health issues and subsequent suicide. Her story is full of love, pain, transformation, and the crucial role of community mental health teams. 

We also delve into the larger picture of the devastating impact mental health issues and suicide can have on families. The shock, guilt, and lack of support are a heavy burden that many carry, especially heightened by the current global pandemic. Jenny's story punctuates the urgent need for changes in Medical and Mental Health provision as well as increased support for those going through these unimaginable circumstances. 

As we end this deeply impactful episode, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a peaceful holiday season and a hopeful new year. 

Useful contacts :-

SOBS Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide.  01159 441 117
Papyrus  Prevention of suicide by young people. 02920 789 759 or 0800 068 4141
Cruse Bereavement car and support 0808 808 1677
Samaritan's 0115 944 1117
EMDR Stands for Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing and can help with complicated Grief processes.  You can look up local therapists but make sure that they are properly accredited.

Lastly, I'm not an expert on anything much but I know a lot of experts in many things so if you get stuck you can email me at [email protected]  and I'll try to respond as soon as I can.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Ever wondered how Catholic priests approach end-of-life care? What role do they play, and how do they navigate it? Get ready for a captivating conversation with Father Rick Fernandez from St Teresa of Lisieux in Colchester. He'll be debunking common misconceptions and shedding light on the profound spiritual guidance that priests provide during these challenging times. From his unique journey as a missionary and a teacher to his current role as a priest, Father Rick's perspective on end-of-life care is not only enlightening but deeply moving.

This episode also takes a fascinating journey back in time, exploring the evolution of the sacrament of the sick, formerly known as extreme unction, in the Catholic Church. We'll explore the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi and the concept of "sister death". Father Rick will provide his valuable insights into death from a Catholic viewpoint, sharing how it is perceived as a natural transition and the significance of facilitating a peaceful and beautiful death. Then, we get real about funeral preferences and discuss the sensitive role of the church in comforting grieving families. Prepare to be deeply touched and enlightened by this rich exploration of the Catholic perspective on end-of-life care.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Martin Roddis from Cruse bereavement support talks about what services that they offer and it is a surprising array.
In the interview Martin and I explore the issues around bereavement counselling, becoming a Grief first aider at work and in the community and what an impact that can have on our society as a whole.
We talk about how Cruse train selective individuals (anyone can volunteer!) in large businesses and what an amazingly positive effect that can have for every individual at whatever level they are at in work.
A must listen to part is about 'the grieving brain' and how understanding how that works can help us understand the process that we go through when grieving.
https://www.cruse.org.uk/ to find out more.  As he says in the interview, there are so many people out there with transferable skills from Hairdressers (mine has brilliant social skills!) to front of house staff, people in the hospitality sector and just everyone who uses people skills who can make a real difference (That could be you!)
To donate just scan the QR code and that will take you straight to Martin's 2003 Fundraiser page.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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What is a Celebrant? What can they offer and how do you get hold of one?  My dear friend and ex-theatre director of The New Route Theatre Company which we ran together for many years with Daryll Tester, has become a celebrant for weddings and funerals and in this interview she tells us how she got into being a celebrant and why and what she herself and other celebrants can offer.  Pauline or 'Po' as we know her is a non-religious celebrant who is essentially the host for a ceremony.  
In recent years Non-religious Celebrants or Humanist Celebrants have become an increasingly popular choice for many people who organise funerals or and weddings.
As I say in the intro, talking with Po is like opening a bottle of Champagne. She is funny, refreshing and always completely professional. 

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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This interview is a favourite of mine. Katy Billimore from St Helena Hospice explaining the phenomena that is Singlepoint. Singlepoint is unlike any other in that you call them for help if you have an incurable illness or want to refer yourself to the Hospice.
She describes how she became a Singlepoint nurse and what her role there is.
Whilst the subject is serious, Katy is ebullient and effervescent when describing her role in helping people in the community and what a unique and amazing job she and the other nurses and Paramedics have.
If you find this or the other episodes useful do please share.
https://everythingendoflife.buzzsprout.com
I'm still figuring out how to copy a link to Facebook but if you just search up Everything End of Life it comes up really quickly, leave a comment.


 

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Every four or five episodes I shall be giving people the opportunity to share their personal stories with us.
I think that we have as much to learn from or just share with others experiences as we do with the experts.
Experts are great as they describe the world that they experience everyday and are trained to respond to in a professional manner.
Those on the other side of the fence are us who can relate our experience of being assisted by professionals and what that can be like.  
In this interview with Di Renders she shares with us what it was like and what support she got when faced with her husbands terminal diagnosis.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1