From the article: Interaction with a Dying Person
Being and interacting with a dying person is challenging for most of us. We might feel uncomfortable, fearful, and at a loss for words.
What have you done to make being with a dying person more meaningful. Are there things you say or try not to say or maybe actions you've taken to bridge the gap in communication? If you've found a way to overcome some of the anxiety of being with a dying person, share what's worked for you with other readers. Share Your Tips
Share your time and memories
- As I write this, my older sister at the age of 48 is dying from pancreatic cancer. Literally days away. I just want to tell people that you shouldn't put off going to visit someone and never be afraid to tell the you love them and that you don't want them to die. My sister is comforted by the visitors and help she's had. Holding a hand, brushing her hair, lying beside her on the bed helping to keep her warm. I just want her to know how proud I am to be her sister and that I love her. Never forget to tell someone that.
- —Guest Sally
Let them know...
- I can remember an experience that I had while volunteering in a hospital to visit people who did not have family or friends. There was an elderly lady who was all alone so her nurse and I sat with her, and though she could not move I could see the fear in her eyes that she knew that she was passing. I held her hand before and after she passed and felt her slip away, the change from warm to cold was clear, and though I was a stranger I could feel that my presence did give her comfort in the end. If you know someone who is dying, and you are at all able, be there for them and let them know that they will not die alone. Bret http://www.FuneralPlannersInc.com
- —FuneralPlanner
Reminiscing Helped
- When my best friend was dying of breast cancer, I felt so uncomfortable around her. We had been friends for 43 years but the big "C" word made me feel so helpless and fragile. To get over it, I decided to pull out all my old photos of us: High School graduation; each other's weddings where we were each others maid of honor; our kids playing together at the beach; our girls only trip to Cancun. Walking through our history together - talking and laughing about times past - helped me remember that my dear friend was still Sue, not a statistic dying of cancer. We had precious time together for which I'll always be grateful.
- —Guest LorettaG.
Love the Person
- I was priviliged to spend time with my father before he died. Towards the end he couldn't speak, he had so many tubes sticking out of him. He was conscious to the very end. I held his hand constantly and looked him in they eyes, and told him often that I loved him and that I would be with him. What a tribute to his life that all seven of his living children (one deceased) was with him to the very end. Often I would notice tears running down the side of his face. He hated to leave us I know. He died knowing we loved him very much. I will see him again one day.
- —Guest James
