'With The End In Mind'

Of course, conversations around dying and death will always be difficult.
Especially when you’re in the ‘thick of it’.

And, if this your reality just now, my heart goes out to you.

You might think it’s a little uncaring to say that death is a part of life.

But, in essence it is.

The experiences I’ve had throughout my working life has shown me this.

• Nursing in A&E - I have seen lives and that of their families changed in an instant.
• Specialising within palliative care - I have witnessed families desperate for a miracle or wishing that a peaceful ending will come soon.
• And even as a Midwife, I’ve supported couples who have returned home from the delivery ward with an empty baby carrier.

And then I have my own experiences of loss.

In fact, it was after losing my Mum (at the grand age of nearly 99!) that prompted my move into Funeral Celebrancy . . . but it was the illness and subsequent death of my sister that has been the drive to run events such as this.

Her diagnosis with a life limiting illness came as an absolute shock to us all.

Such was her fear that we were not even ‘allowed’ to talk about her illness . . . her diagnosis . . . her treatment - or, perhaps, most importantly her wishes.

And I understand this was her way of dealing with it.
And I absolutely respected her wishes.
But how I wish I’d known what I know now . . . back then.

Yes, the outcome would, most probably, have been the same but, chances are, we would have arrived at that point in a more gentle, compassionate and open way.

So, I can really relate to where you might be just now - whether you are a carer of someone you love or maybe even facing this yourself.

So, please think about joining this groups and attending one of the upcoming ‘With The End In Mind’ events.

My vision is to encourage people to have compassionate conversations that cover choices and decisions around the end of life, death and beyond.
And I know this isn't easy.
Yet, not having these conversations can lead to so much sadness and regret.

I see this all the time with families I support as a Funeral Celebrant.
They'll often say "I wish I knew what Mum would have wanted" or "there's so much about his life I don't know . . . how can we celebrate a life when there's so much 'missing'"

And, I know from the countless (though not faceless) individuals I’ve supported throughout my entire career (and from my own personal experience too) that, whenever death is ‘on the table’ it can absolutely turn your world upside down.

And, whenever (and however) it happens, the death of a loved one, a family member, friend or someone you know will always stop you in your tracks.
Which can be discombobulating and isolating.

Yet, within this numbness, there’s an expectation that you will be able to function.
To consider all the choices you have available to you.
Make plans.
And make important decisions.

When, actually, all you feel able to do is anything but that.

This is my mission and the drive behind 'With The End In Mind'.

And here are some of the ways that we are here to support you:
~ Support, Guidance and Helpful Information. Which includes :
Downloadable Guides
Blogs
Signposting to charities & organisations who are skilled in supporting people and families like you

~ A series of Podcasts to introduce you to professionals you might be dealing with during this time

~ A number of workshops that will offer beautiful ways to honour your loved ones

~ As well as grief gatherings and funeral fairs.is there to support and guide you events.

You can always get in touch through my website or via email and I hope to see you at one of our events

Annie xx