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Jill Bodak, an osteopath in Toronto, Ontario, shares the deeply personal story of her father’s stroke in 2020, which flipped her world upside down. His stroke happened unexpectedly while skiing on the other side of the country, and what followed was an intense two-year journey of caregiving. Initially told that he wouldn’t survive, her father defied the odds but was left in a severely compromised state, requiring Jill to become his primary caregiver.

Over time, her father expressed that he no longer wanted to live, which led them to explore medically assisted death, a legal option in Canada. Jill’s writing throughout this period focused on family, grief, and caregiving. Her book, Loved Into Being: Reflections on Stroke and Being Indestructible, emerged as both a tribute and a conversation starter on end-of-life rights.

She speaks about the emotional complexity of caregiving and the challenging role reversal, explaining that her father's vulnerability during his recovery was a beautiful yet heartbreaking contrast to the physically active person he once was. Despite the overwhelming daily demands, they found moments of humor and connection—laughing together even when words failed.

Jill reflects on how this experience has deeply impacted her approach to wellness and the preciousness of life. She emphasizes the importance of understanding mortality and how it reshaped her perspective on treating the body and the mind. The journey through her father’s illness and eventual medically assisted death was both transformative and filled with moments of profound connection.

Her story offers a touching and honest look at caregiving, family dynamics, and the complex emotional landscape of end-of-life decisions.

Get her book here. https://www.amazon.com/Loved-Into-Being-Reflections-Indestructible/dp/B0BPGPKZJW

On Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/jill.bodak/

Website. https://www.jillbodak.com/

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In this episode, David Downie shares his profound journey, reflecting on his life and health as he nears the end of his time. Now in his 70s, he opens up about his long battle with heart issues, including multiple valve surgeries, and the challenges he's faced in managing his condition. 

David candidly discusses the reality of doctors losing interest when patients can no longer be "fixed." He explains his decision to stop pursuing further treatments, choosing instead to focus on comfort through palliative care, which has helped him manage pain and improve his quality of life.

David reveals how meditation and mindfulness play a crucial role in his day-to-day existence, allowing him to navigate physical and emotional pain. He emphasizes the importance of being fully present in life, even as his health declines. 

Though he remains alert and grounded, David expresses the relief that comes from accepting his fate, despite the occasional fear that creeps in. His perspective on death is shaped by his Buddhist beliefs, as he contemplates the opportunity to work through his karma as the end draws near.

David touches on the fears that come with dying alone, particularly the logistical challenges he may face as his condition worsens. He shares his concerns about the limitations of hospice care and how he's learned to take each day as it comes, without becoming overwhelmed by future uncertainties. 

The episode also highlights the power of community, with a small group of friends committed to being by his side as he approaches death, ensuring he won't be alone in his final moments.

Through this conversation, David's story offers valuable insights into living and dying with dignity. His reflections on fear, suffering, and the inevitability of death encourage listeners to confront their own anxieties and to embrace life with openness and intention.

To follow along with David on his end of life journey, check out his YouTube channel linked below. 

https://www.youtube.com/@daviddownie5594

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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

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This episode is the first part of a two part episode where I had a deeply personal conversation with my friend David Downie, a former nurse who worked during the early days of the HIV pandemic. As someone who grew up in the 80s, I was aware of the epidemic but didn’t understand the full scope of what it was like for those on the frontlines. A few weeks ago, while on a phone call with David, I learned more about his powerful story, and I knew I had to invite him to share his experiences on the show.

David began by recounting his time as a nurse, starting in Colorado, when the HIV crisis began to unfold. In the early days, the disease seemed far away, affecting mostly communities in New York and Los Angeles. However, it soon reached Colorado, and David found himself caring for friends and patients affected by the epidemic. He worked in the ER and eventually at HIV clinics in Denver, witnessing the devastating toll the illness took on individuals and communities.

David shared the emotional burden of those early years when there was no test for HIV and people lived in constant fear of contracting the virus. When testing became available, the fear of a positive result weighed heavily on those waiting for answers. Later, when he moved to Los Angeles—one of the epicenters of the crisis—he worked at an HIV clinic and saw the early effects of treatments like AZT, which, despite offering hope, came with harsh side effects.

As our conversation progressed, David opened up about his current health struggles. Nearing the end of his life, he spoke candidly about his experience with heart failure and rheumatoid arthritis. He shared how his meditation practice, rooted in our shared connection at a meditation center in Philadelphia, has helped him cope with physical pain and navigate his final months with greater peace. David’s reflections on the inevitability of pain and death, and how meditation has shifted his perspective, offer a powerful message on finding acceptance and serenity in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

You can follow David's personal journey on his YouTube page. https://www.youtube.com/@daviddownie5594

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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support 

Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. 

Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

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Dr. Viola Pierce, or Dr. V, has had a truly remarkable journey in the nursing profession, from starting as an LPN to becoming a doctorally prepared nurse with extensive experience in the emergency department. Her passion for nursing and education is evident in her commitment to helping other nurses not only survive but thrive in their careers. Through her work as a nurse business coach, Dr. V empowers nurse coaches and consultants to build successful businesses that allow them to work from anywhere in the world and on their own terms.

Dr. V's experiences in the ER, where she witnessed both the triumphs and tragedies of life, have deeply shaped her approach to nursing and life. Her belief in the importance of living fully in the "dash" between birth and death, along with her commitment to solving problems within the healthcare system, drives her mission to create better opportunities for nurses. By teaching nurses how to establish coaching and consulting businesses, she aims to revolutionize healthcare by enabling more personalized and efficient patient care, such as through the creation of infusion centers and home health agencies.

Dr. V's personal experiences with loss, including the deaths of her family members, have also informed her compassionate approach to patient care, particularly in end-of-life situations. Her ability to connect with patients and their families, often going above and beyond her duties, highlights the deep empathy and dedication she brings to her work. Whether she's teaching nurses, supporting families, or sharing her faith, Dr. V is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, both within and outside the healthcare system.

https://www.facebook.com/viola.pierce1010

https://www.facebook.com/vpnursing/

https://www.instagram.com/vpnursing/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-viola-pierce-58885ab9/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXyEL-PwF8Q599gf9YEL_PA

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/morning-infusion-with-dr-v-nursing-podcast/id1568626898

https://www.tiktok.com/@vpnursing

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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support 

Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. 

Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

[email protected] 

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Rose Luardo is a vibrant, multifaceted artist living in South Philadelphia, where she engages in various odd jobs, art projects, and gigs. She's a person who's always been intrigued—and admittedly a bit obsessed—with the concept of death.

In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Rose reflects on the human condition and our relationship with mortality, presenting a perspective that challenges conventional views of human exceptionalism. She questions why humans consider themselves more special than other species, highlighting our tendency to see ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution, even though we're just another part of Earth's complex system.

Rose resonates with the idea that the Earth will continue without us, and in the grand scheme, things will be fine, even if it means that cockroaches inherit the Earth. She emphasizes the importance of accepting what we can and cannot control, advocating for the idea that we should strive to be the best humans we can be, despite our imperfections and the guilt and shame we may carry.

Rose notes the recent cultural shift towards discussing death more openly, recognizing the value in training people to assist with this transition. She shares a personal anecdote about attending the Beautiful Death Expo, where death was normalized and discussed in a way that felt as ordinary as visiting a mall.

The conversation also touches on the deep emotional experiences of those who have lost loved ones, particularly children, and how these realities are part of the human experience. Rose discusses the importance of facing these harsh truths head-on rather than ignoring them, suggesting that acknowledging death and trauma can lead to a more meaningful life.

Throughout, Rose reflects on how her understanding of death has influenced her life, making her feel lighter and less concerned with material pursuits. This perspective has allowed her to live more freely, shedding the pressures of capitalist values and embracing a simpler, more purposeful existence.

The conversation explores the physical changes that come with aging and menopause, and how these changes prompt a deeper consideration of mortality. This acceptance of the natural progression of life aligns with the overall theme of letting go and finding peace in the inevitability of death.

This episode offers listeners a profound and candid exploration of death, aging, and the human experience, challenging them to reconsider their relationship with life and mortality.

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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support 

Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. 

Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

[email protected] 

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Rose Luardo is a vibrant, multifaceted artist living in South Philadelphia, where she engages in various odd jobs, art projects, and gigs. She's a person who's always been intrigued—and admittedly a bit obsessed—with the concept of death, a curiosity that began in her childhood, possibly sparked by watching The Exorcist too young. This fascination with the unknown led her to create a coffin for a 2017 exhibition at Practice Gallery, an object she couldn't part with and eventually placed in an empty lot near her home.

Her father, a Filipino psychiatrist, greatly influenced her. He was open to discussing anything, from his life in the Philippines to cultural observations, which Rose recorded during a dialysis cruise. These recordings formed part of an art piece that combined her father's stories with a playful, yet poignant, commercial for a fictional "used coffin service."

Rose's work explores the intersection of death and life, evident in her "rave coffin," made from plush materials that evoke a comforting, womb-like environment. This piece invited visitors to experience her father's stories from within the coffin, challenging the fear and discomfort often associated with death.

Rose reflects on society's discomfort with death, contrasting it with the past when death was a more intimate, communal experience. She draws parallels between sex and death, noting that while both are often taboo, people are more willing to engage in conversations about sex, even though death is an inevitable part of life.

In contemplating death, Rose has turned to plant medicines like ayahuasca, seeking to understand the death experience better. She suggests that these experiences, along with practices like meditation, could be ways to prepare for death, a notion supported by recent studies on the therapeutic use of psychedelics for end-of-life anxiety.

Rose believes that confronting our fears—whether through art, conversation, or personal exploration—strengthens us and provides a deeper understanding of life's impermanence. As she notes, our culture often tries to avoid discomfort, yet life is inherently uncomfortable. By engaging with the things that scare us, we build resilience and come to terms with the transient nature of existence.

In a world increasingly disconnected from the realities of death, Rose's work and reflections offer a valuable perspective on embracing the inevitable with curiosity, creativity, and a touch of humor.

https://phillyfringe.org/events/crone-castle/

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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

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Indra Rinzler is an astrologer who has been on a spiritual journey for over 50 years, specializing in Vedic astrology and the Enneagram of Personality. His work focuses on helping people discover their true selves, beyond who they think they are. With a unique perspective shaped by his extensive time in India and a deep commitment to spiritual growth, Indra shares his insights on life, happiness, and the inevitable journey toward death.

Moving to California, he started a commune with a focus on learning about life. This experience, combined with the early loss of both parents, allowed him to follow his path freely, exploring the deeper questions of happiness and fulfillment.

One of Indra's core beliefs is that life isn't designed to make us happy. Instead, happiness is something we must actively pursue, often by letting go of control and surrendering to what is. He discusses the challenges we face—ego, arrogance, insecurity, and societal expectations—that block our path to happiness. Indra suggests that these obstacles are not just to be overcome but are also opportunities for growth, reflecting where we are holding on too tightly to certain beliefs or desires.

Indra also delves into the concept of death, influenced by his study of Indian teachings that view life and death as a continuum. He emphasizes the importance of daily preparation for death, whether through meditation or other practices that encourage letting go of attachments. This preparation isn't about final exams but about daily practices that help us detach from the material world and find peace with what is.

Indra's philosophy extends to the idea of karma and life lessons. He suggests that our lives are shaped by choices made before birth, where we might have agreed to face certain challenges to learn specific lessons. This perspective helps his clients understand their struggles as part of a greater purpose, leading to a sense of relief and acceptance.

In his later years, Indra finds freedom in knowing less and needing less each day. He embraces the idea of surrender, letting go of control, and being content with what is. His journey is one of continual learning and letting go, finding happiness not in changing circumstances but in accepting them.

IndraRinzler.com

[email protected]

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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support 

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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

[email protected] 

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Stephanie Chevrier, an artist based in Vancouver, Canada, has found herself deeply immersed in the exploration of death, reality, and what it means to be human. As an artist, she primarily works as a tattoo artist and illustrator, with a strong affinity for black ink. However, her curiosity extends far beyond her artistic pursuits, as she delves into the mysteries of consciousness and the afterlife.

Stephanie’s journey into the death space began with a fascination for near-death experiences (NDEs) and the scientific and personal accounts surrounding them. This exploration opened her mind to questions about what happens after death, the nature of reality, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Despite her skepticism, she found the research and stories compelling enough to challenge her lifelong beliefs.

Through her research, Stephanie noticed significant improvements in her mental health and relationships. She observed that by integrating conversations about death into daily life, she became more present and appreciative of the moments she shared with loved ones. This newfound perspective has inspired her to live fully in the present, embracing life’s fleeting nature.

Stephanie has also been deeply moved by the spiritual aspects of her work, which has led her to trust in the universe’s guidance and to let go of rigid plans. She believes that by listening to the subtle cues of the heart and following them, one can move toward their true purpose.

As she continues to share her insights on death and the afterlife, Stephanie remains open to the possibility that there is more to life than we can understand through materialism alone. She acknowledges that while science has made strides in understanding these phenomena, there is still much that remains beyond our comprehension. Ultimately, Stephanie hopes that by discussing these topics, people will become more open to the mysteries of life and death, leading to a deeper connection with themselves and others.

https://www.instagram.com/live.deathless/

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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

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Rev. Christine Davies, the director of pastoral care at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey, shares her journey into hospital chaplaincy. As an ACPE supervisor and seminary professor, she teaches the art of hospital chaplaincy and educates clergy. Christine’s path began with a deep connection to her local Presbyterian church, a passion for helping others, and an early career as an EMT. This combination of experiences led her to shift from a pre-med major to religion, ultimately embracing chaplaincy. Her love for spiritual questions and supporting people during vulnerable times fueled this transition.

Christine's work involves addressing the spiritual and emotional needs of patients and families, especially during end-of-life situations. She emphasizes the importance of being present, listening, and holding space for individuals to explore their beliefs and emotions. Christine highlights the challenges chaplains face, such as dealing with the uncertainty of their impact and the complexities of supporting people through their spiritual distress.

In her role, Christine also focuses on advanced care planning, helping patients appoint healthcare proxies and discuss their wishes for end-of-life care. She stresses the importance of having these conversations early to alleviate the burden on loved ones during critical moments.

Christine’s approach to chaplaincy extends beyond traditional religious boundaries. She recognizes that spirituality can exist outside of formal religion, offering support to individuals regardless of their beliefs. She often encounters people grappling with anger towards God or struggling with long-held beliefs that no longer serve them in their current situations. Christine’s compassionate presence allows for open exploration of these feelings.


Christine’s work is not limited to the hospital setting. She has also led bereavement groups and facilitated advanced care planning discussions in community settings.

https://www.christinevdavies.com 

https://journeyingalongside.substack.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rev-christine-davies/

https://www.instagram.com/cvdavies/

https://www.facebook.com/christine.davies

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Yvonne Caputo, from Southeastern Pennsylvania, is deliciously semi-retired after a varied career. She began in education, moved to the area, and leveraged her second master's degree in clinical psychology to work in employee assistance. Eventually, she became the vice president of human resources for a retirement community, which was her last full-time job.

Her experience in the retirement community provided deep insights into aging, observing both the grace and struggles of residents and the critical importance of advanced directives. This perspective was invaluable when caring for her parents. 

Her experience informed her own end-of-life planning, including completing an advanced directive and the "Five Wishes" document. She has had thorough discussions with her children and stepchildren about her wishes, emphasizing not wanting them to personally care for her but to find a good place for her when the time comes.

A poignant story she shares involves her father, they went through the document question by question, leading to an intimate and precious moment between them. His wishes were witnessed and shared with his medical team, making his final days more comfortable and aligned with his desires. Yvonne's father passed away in January 2010. This clarity helped Yvonne and her family ensure his final wishes were respected.

Yvonne highlights the importance of these conversations and documents, not only for ensuring one's wishes are respected but also for the peace and clarity they bring to loved ones. She emphasizes that while such discussions might seem daunting, they often lead to profound and intimate connections, as they did with her father.

Through her work and personal experiences, Yvonne advocates for others to engage in end-of-life planning. She believes that these preparations allow individuals to live their lives fully, knowing that their final wishes will be honored. She continues to share her journey and insights, encouraging others to embrace this important aspect of life.

https://ingeniumbooks.com/yvonne-caputo/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-caputo-1449137/

https://www.fivewishes.org/

[email protected]

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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support 

Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. 

Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. 

[email protected] 

https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.

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