As we begin the run up to Christmas, thoughts and conversation will turn increasingly to those who have died, so what better time to note the one most important facility available to anyone who has been bereaved - the AtaLoss.org signposting website.
Sadly my wife and I lost our 6 year old son Will in February this year following a 9 month battle with an aggressive brain tumour. Will was a beautiful, adventurous and “oh so cheeky” little boy, full of life and adventure.
Hallowe’en, or Samhain (Sao-win) as it is known to Pagans, is the final harvest of the year and Pagan New Year. It is traditionally a time to remember the dead and honour our ancestors. It is when the “veil” between the world of the living and the world of the dead is thinnest and spirits of the dead can reunite with their family and friends.
Talking about death is seen as one of the final taboos. Time and again research shows that we, the British public are very reluctant to talk about death or think about our own funeral. Why should we? As funeral directors we’re often told by our customers that thinking about your own mortality can lead to a dark place - “why would you do that voluntarily?” they inevitably ask.
Rachel Smith, Co-founder of Lifefyle, talks about life admin and how organising your life not only lightens your mental load, but has the added benefit of being a comfort and help to your family in the event of your death.