Hospice Explained Podcast

Ep. 95 Understanding Hospice: Finding a Hospice Agency and Knowing When to Call This episode of Hospice Explained, hosted by Marie Betcher RN, revisits the topic from episode 20 about identifying the right time to call the nurse or the hospice team for assistance. It begins with guidance on using medicare.gov to find local hospice agencies by zip code. The episode stresses the importance of choosing the right hospice provider by doing thorough research, seeking multiple opinions, and understanding what to expect from hospice care. Additionally, the episode covers when to contact the hospice team once care has commenced, focusing on managing medications, supplies, equipment, and addressing common hospice care challenges such as uncontrolled pain, shortness of breath, terminal agitation, and equipment issues. The podcast aims to decrease fear and increase education surrounding hospice care, urging listeners to be proactive in their approach to end-of-life care. Marie Betcher also announces her decision to include affiliate links rather than ads on the podcast to support Hospice Explained financially. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 Revisiting Episode 20: When to Call the Nurse and Hospice Team 00:50 Finding a Hospice Agency: Tips and Resources 01:47 Affiliate Announcements and Listener Appreciation 02:33 Original Episode 20 Replay: Navigating Hospice Care 02:51 Understanding When to Call the Hospice Team 06:19 Proactive Measures and Communication with Hospice 12:40 Closing Thoughts and Dedication Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one. Dr. G at the Heart of Healthcare Episode #36 goes into more depth on how to choose the best Hospice for your Needs: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-g-at-the-heart-of-healthcare/id1680843209?i=1000640745856Hospice for you or your loved ones needs. YouTube: https://youtu.be/k7xIezN47sM?si=ktVe27zMOwnaF3Ht Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Affiliate for DNA is Love listeners also get a 5% discount!! https://dnaislove.com/?coupon=hospiceexplained5 The Death Deck and the E*O*L deck: https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ Kacie Gikonyo's Death Doula School https://hospiceexplained--deathdoulaschool.thrivecart.com/death-doula-school/ Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com

Choices with Sips and Wishes, Breaking the Silence: Embracing End-of-Life Navigating End-of-Life Conversations with Amy Hensley In this episode of 'Hospice Explained', host Marie Betcher, RN, interviews Amy Hensley, a former graphic designer turned RN, hospice nurse, and end-of-life educator. Amy Hensley shares her career journey from graphic design to nursing, emphasizing her passion for hospice care and the importance of end-of-life education. Together, they discuss Amy's business, Sips and Wishes, which aims to facilitate difficult end-of-life conversations through educational parties. These gatherings allow individuals and families to discuss and document their medical wishes in a supportive environment. Amy underlines the significance of choosing the right medical power of attorney and having open discussions about end-of-life preferences to prevent family conflicts and ensure one's wishes are respected. They also touch on the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in addressing end-of-life issues and the potential for personal and legal documents to be overridden by family members. The episode highlights the need for ongoing conversation and education around end-of-life decisions to support individuals and their families during challenging times. https://www.sipsandwishesparty.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 01:19 Amy's Journey and Insights into Hospice Care 00:35 Meet Amy Hensley: From Graphic Designer to Hospice Nurse 01:22 Amy's Journey and Insights into Hospice Care 02:40 The Challenges and Rewards of Hospice Work 04:59 The Birth of Sips and Wishes: Educating on End-of-Life Decisions 07:25 The Structure and Impact of Sips and Wishes Parties 10:17 The Importance of Conversations and Legal Preparations 16:59 Navigating Family Dynamics and Legalities in End-of-Life Planning 29:24 The Importance of Continuous Conversation and Legal Updates 30:30 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Sips and Wishes 30:45 Connecting with Amy and Sips and Wishes 32:10 Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Subscribe Hospice Explained Affiliates and Contact: Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Affiliate for DNA is Love listeners also get a 5% discount!! https://dnaislove.com/?coupon=hospiceexplained5 The Death Deck and the E*O*L deck: https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ Kacie Gikonyo's Death Doula School https://hospiceexplained--deathdoulaschool.thrivecart.com/death-doula-school/ Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com

EP. 93 Patient Quotes: Stories of Resilience with Dr. Christina Gomez In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher, RN, interviews Dr. Christina Gomez, a GI Medical Oncologist at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center and author of 'Stopped in My Tracks, A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients Quotes'. Dr. Gomez shares her journey into Oncology, highlighting the significance of patient-doctor relationships and the profound role hospice care plays in the oncology field. The discussion delves into the importance of honest communication between patients and healthcare providers, patient experiences in oncology, and the impact of hospice on both patients and their families. Dr. Gomez also shares personal stories from her practice and insights from her book, illustrating the human side of oncology and the sacred moments at the end of life. The episode concludes with a reflection on the essential role of hospice care and the importance of conversations around end-of-life wishes and care preferences. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 Meet Dr. Christina Gomez: A Glimpse into Her Life and Work 02:34 The Intersection of Oncology and Hospice Care 04:24 Navigating Difficult Conversations and Embracing the Hospice Journey 11:16 Enhancing the Oncology Patient Experience: Insights and Advice 14:53 Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Reflections Through Quotes 21:53 Profound Patient Stories and the Impact of Hospice Care 28:36 Final Thoughts and the Importance of Last Words Stopped in My Tracks: A Physician's Collection of Cancer Patients' Quotes christinagomezmd.com. Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Please and Thank YOU!! Affiliate for DNA is Love listeners also get a 5% discount!! https://dnaislove.com/?coupon=hospiceexplained5 The Death Deck and the E*O*L deck: https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ Kacie Gikonyo's Death Doula School https://hospiceexplained--deathdoulaschool.thrivecart.com/death-doula-school/ Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com

Ep. 92 Hospice Explained - Episode 92: After Death A discussion of the movie 'After Death' based on survivors' near-death experiences and its impact on spirituality and choices. 00:00 Introduction 00:38 Movie Review: After Death 01:19 Inspiration from 'Imagine Heaven' 01:42 Hospice Encounters Podcast 02:36 Impact of Choices and Kindness 02:59 Affiliate links and Support 04:00 Upcoming Interview https://a.co/d/fDZKTOX https://youtu.be/wMMAnO67RPw?si=qo2NkM8byR99A5x4 Hospice Encounters Episode #1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hospice-encounters/id1622451693?i=1000559627569 Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Please and Thank YOU!! Affiliate for DNA is Love listeners also get a 5% discount!! https://dnaislove.com/?coupon=hospiceexplained5 The Death Deck and the E*O*L deck: https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ Kacie Gikonyo's Death Doula School https://hospiceexplained--deathdoulaschool.thrivecart.com/death-doula-school/ Marie's Contact 206-705-3080 Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com

EP. 91 Navigating Diverse Hospice Experiences: A Family's Journey This episode of 'Hospice Explained' features host Marie Betcher RN in conversation with guest Lee Ann Pepper, who shares her contrasting experiences with hospice care for her parents. Lee Ann recounts her mother's journey with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and her peaceful transition into hospice care at home, emphasizing the personalized and compassionate approach of hospice services that fostered a comforting end-of-life experience. In contrast, she describes her father's struggle with Parkinson's and the challenges posed by his hospice care during the COVID-19 pandemic, including restrictions on visitations and difficulties in addressing his anxiety and discomfort. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding each patient's unique needs, the impact of external factors such as the pandemic on hospice care, and the potential areas for improvement in communicating and addressing patients' and families' needs. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:32 Guest Introduction: Lee Ann Pepper’s Unique Hospice Experiences 01:26 Lee Ann’s Mother's Hospice Journey: A Story of Compassion and Closure 05:18 The Hospice Experience: Comfort Over Cure 09:59 Lee Ann's Father's Hospice Journey: Challenges and Differences 10:30 Navigating Hospice Care During COVID-19 25:12 Reflections on Hospice Care and Its Impact 25:52 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement to Volunteer Lee Ann's Contact: Leeann.classreunion@gmail.com Instagram leeann_classreunion TikTok leeann_classreunion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvlLTttbs3A Marie's Contact: Buying from the Death Deck affiliate will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support at the Buy me a Coffee link-Please and Thank YOU!! 206-705-3080 Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

Ep. 90 A Journey Through Hospice: Navigating End-of-Life with Love and Legacy This episode of Hospice Explained, hosted by Marie Betcher, RN, features an in-depth interview with Tanya Hackney, who shares the profound experience of navigating her mother-in-law, Mary's, end-of-life journey through hospice care after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Tanya provides a heartfelt narrative of Mary's illness, their close family bonds, the decision to enter hospice, and the impactful last days filled with love, spiritual growth, and authentic connections. The conversation also touches on the roles of cancer coaches, the concept of a 'death day party' to celebrate life, and the importance of communication during such challenging times. Finally, Tanya discusses the legacy Mary left behind and the ripple effects on those around her, exemplified by the transition of Mary's caregiver, Christine, into a role as a death doula, embodying the compassionate support essential in end-of-life care. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 Meet Tanya Hackney: A Life of Adventure and Compassion 01:46 Tanya's Journey with Mary: From Sailing to Hospice 04:40 Mary's Battle with Pancreatic Cancer: A Story of Courage 10:35 The Final Days: Embracing Hospice with Love and Legacy 26:12 Reflections and Insights: The Impact of a Cancer Coach and the Role of Communication 33:30 A Legacy Continued: From Hospice Care to Death Doula 35:56 Closing Thoughts: Honoring Mary's Legacy Tanya’s Contact: Links: Blog www.taketwosailing.com Book https://ingeniumbooks.com/LTSH Facebook https://www.facebook.com/tanya.hackney.71 https://www.facebook.com/TakeTwoSailing/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/taketwosailing/ Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/tanyataketwo/ Marie's Contact: Buying from the Death Deck affiliate will help support this Podcast. In addition you can donate to help support at the Buy me a Coffee link-Please and Thank YOU!! 206-705-3080 Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com https://thedeathdeck.goaffpro.com/ https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

Ep. 89 Navigating End-of-Life Conversations: Embracing the Uncomfortable In episode 89 of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher, RN, emphasizes the importance of allowing and engaging in hard conversations about end-of-life matters. She acknowledges the common discomfort and avoidance surrounding these discussions, sharing her personal experiences of sometimes shutting down conversations or dominating them with her own opinions. Marie encourages listeners to forgive themselves for past avoidance and to strive towards being a safe space for others to express their end-of-life concerns and questions. She suggests informal settings like around a campfire or in the backyard as conducive environments for initiating such conversations, stressing the importance of asking open-ended questions and respecting the other person's readiness to talk. Additionally, Marie announces the future Hospice Explained community, a membership community aimed at providing a safe space for more in-depth discussions and support. She concludes by recommending the PBS Frontline documentary 'Being Mortal' by Dr. Atul Gawande, highlighting it as an insightful resource on the challenges of end-of-life conversations even among healthcare professionals. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 The Importance of Hard Conversations About End of Life 01:56 Creating a Safe Space for Difficult Discussions 03:14 Introducing the Hospice Explained Community 03:43 Recommendation: 'Being Mortal' Documentary 04:18 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement Being Mortal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQhI3Jb7vMg Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Google voicemail: 206-705-3080 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

In episode 88 of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN interviews Dr. Kaishauna Guidry, a California-based mobile physician specializing in hospice care. Dr. Guidry discusses her journey into the hospice field, starting from her introduction to palliative care as a medical student to founding Mourning Dove Medical. She highlights her role as an educator and healthcare advocate through her podcasts and books aimed at enlightening both healthcare professionals and the public about hospice care. Dr. Guidry emphasizes the importance of early hospice involvement, shares personal impactful experiences with end-of-life care, and advocates for comprehensive patient and family education on hospice services. The episode also touches on palliative and concierge medicine, the significance of inter-professional collaboration, and the necessity of having conversations about hospice care early in the disease trajectory to ensure holistic and dignified end-of-life care. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:36 Meet Dr. Kaishauna Guidry: A Trailblazer in Hospice Care 03:03 Dr. G's Journey: From Teacher to Hospice Physician 05:05 The Impact of Dr. G's Work: Books, Podcasts, and Advocacy 06:58 Understanding Concierge Medicine in Hospice Care 16:51 The Importance of Early Hospice Referral and Choosing the Right Agency 20:06 Sharing Profound End-of-Life Experiences 26:38 The Power of Communication in Hospice Care 33:19 Conclusion: The Legacy of Hospice Care and Final Thoughts Kaishauna Guidry, MD, HMDC Contact: Mourning Dove Medical CEO Providing Peace of Mind in Healthcare https://mourningdovemedical.com/ Dr G at the Heart of Healthcare Kaishauna Guidry MD, HMDC Podcast #36 How to find the Best Hospice Agency: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-g-at-the-heart-of-healthcare/id1680843209?i=1000640745856 Marie's Contact: 206-705-3080 Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com

Ep. 87 Guiding Lights: Navigating Hospice with Jean Oswald RN In episode 87 of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN interviews Jean Oswald, RN, a seasoned hospice nurse and end-of-life consultant from Rochester, New York. Jean shares her journey from raising five children and studying natural healing therapies to finding her soul's purpose in hospice work. She discusses the importance of comfort care homes and her approach to integrating natural healing, such as aromatherapy, into end-of-life care. Jean also highlights misconceptions surrounding hospice and palliative care, the significance of caregiver support, and personal stories that have impacted her career. Additionally, she offers advice for those navigating the healthcare system at the end of life and introduces her book, 'Guiding Lights: Navigating the end of life journey,' aimed at demystifying the end-of-life process for caregivers and patients alike. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 Meet Jean Oswald: A Journey into Hospice Nursing 00:40 Jean's Personal and Professional Background 02:45 The Role and Impact of Comfort Care Homes 06:29 Exploring Aromatherapy in Hospice Care 13:02 Jean's Book: A Guide Through End of Life Care 24:27 Advice for Pre-Hospice Preparation and Caregiving 29:00 Profound Stories from Hospice Care 32:09 Closing Thoughts and Invitation for Future Conversations Jean's Contact: https://compassionateconsulting.com/ https://www.facebook.com/CompassionateConsulting https://www.instagram.com/compassionateconsulting/ To order my book: https://a.co/d/3J5UwSr Sign up for newsletters at https://bit.ly/3VQeMem Marie's Contact: Marie Betcher BSN, RN Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Google Voicemail: 206-705-3080

Ep. 86 Conversation Starters with Cards from the E*O*L Deck Thank you for listening and I want to remind you coming soon is the Hospice Explained member community On Hospice Explained Episode # 56 I interviewed Lisa pahl Lisa is a social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, games that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hospice-explained-podcast/id1558665301 If you are interested in Purchasing the Cards: Here is my affiliate link https://thedeathdeck.com/?ref=c8is9vi6 ( Hospice Explained will get a small Commission if you use this link, Thank You!) https://thedeathdeck.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice

Ep.85 Start the Conversation: How Early Hospice Support Makes A Difference with Jamie Haberman When nearing the end of life, so many people delay signing up for hospice care and support until they are in the throes of the final stages. You don’t have to be on your deathbed or actively dying to seek hospice support. Hospice isn't for those on the brink of death; it's a support system that can help enhance the quality of life and alleviate discomfort at the end of life. Rather than waiting until the last moment, seeking the support of a hospice team earlier ensures comprehensive care and emotional support for both the patient and their loved ones. By embracing hospice sooner, you can navigate the end of life with dignity, surrounded by compassionate professionals who prioritize your comfort and well-being, to create a peaceful passage surrounded by the warmth of friends and family. Join the conversation with Jamie Haberman as she shares her journey and passion in hospice care, the essence of hospice support, and how you can improve your hospice experience. Jamie is a dedicated Christian wife, mother of six, homeschool teacher, hospice nurse, international best-selling author, entrepreneur, owner of Hospice Buddy, and ambassador for Girl Power Alliance. Jamie has always been a hard worker, team player, and leader who is motivated to help people in any way she can while constantly craving to learn more about medical conditions, end-of-life, and spirituality. She found a passion for hospice care 16 years ago and loves helping patients and families find comfort and peace at the end of life. Although Jamie struggles with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and the host of issues that come with it, she refuses to let that stop her from accomplishing her dreams and goals. Jamie has followed God’s plan for her life to make her into the successful woman she is today. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Jamie Haberman [01:44] Jamie’s background and what she does in the hospice space [02:59] How Jamie handles home visits both on the phone and physically [04:17] About Jamie’s business, Hospice Buddy [07:16] Hospice Buddy structure, programs, and pricing [10:06] How Jamie manages her day job and her business [11:40] How Jamie blends medical advice as a nurse and hospice care [14:40] About Jamie’s book: Dream To Rise [16:02] Why Jamie choose certification in hospice vs. death doula [17:42] How to help people improve their hospice experience [20:16] One thing you should know about hospice [21:49] Patients’ deaths that impacted Jamie and why [25:30] What is true and not true about hospice care and support [27:32] Jamie’s mission of connecting and helping people who are struggling [29:49] Hospice Buddy's main focus in hospice care [32:28] Resources and opportunities to learn about hospice care [34:21] Wrap up and end of the show Notable Quotes ● Be open and honest as caregivers talking to families and encourage families to be honest with themselves. [17:44] ● A lot of people sign up for hospice so late; don’t wait until you are nearly dead or for the last-minute sign-up to get extra support and care from a hospice team. [18:37] ● You don’t have to be on the death doorstep or actively dying to get hospice help. [20:37] ● There are so many opportunities to learn, and when you are going through something, you can find a resource online very quickly. [33:43] Resources Mentioned Dream To Rise: https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Rise-Cynthia-Encinas-Concordia-ebook/dp/B0CQKLBB4Q Let’s Connect Jamie Haberman Website: https://hospicebuddy.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.hospiceexplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice Marie@HospiceEncounters.com ● Leave a Voicemail: 206-705-3080

Ep.84 The Best Death Doula School for Your Training with Kacie Gikonyo Are you in the hospice space and looking to change your career? Or are you passionate about helping people in their end-of-life season? Becoming a death doula could be your next stop. A death doula, or an end-of-life doula or death midwife, is a trained professional who provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals facing terminal illness or death and their loved ones. They are not medical professionals but rather act as guides and companions through this sensitive and significant life transition. Several organizations offer death doula training programs, both in-person and online. When researching the best death doula school for your training, some things to consider are the cost, accreditation, and a curriculum that covers all the essential topics, such as death and dying, communication, grief and bereavement, and ethical considerations. In this episode, Kacie Gikonyo, a return guest, joins us to shed more light on her Death Doula School and everything you need to know. Kacie Gikonyo is also the CEO and Founder of End of Life Consulting, a Registered Nurse, Death Doula, and Death Educator. with over 12 years of experience working closely with patients at the end of life. If you come to Kacie’s Death Doula School in person, not only will you get the most comprehensive education out there, but you will also get hands-on clinical experience as well, so that by the time you finish the program, you will be certified. You have everything that you need to go forward with your business. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:30] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Kacie Gikonyo [01:44] Kacie’s newest project- The Death Doula School [09:37] Are there basic requirements to become a death doula? [10:37] How long it will take to complete the training program [12:40] The program’s training on the end-of-life’s paperwork [13:37] Kacie’s plans on courses that a person may not want [14:46] Realistic course timelines for those joining online [15:29] How Kacie is planning to train the attendees on how to make this a business [18:19] The expected post-course support [20:00] How about if you have taken another death doula course online? [21:01] Type of certification to get after the training [27:03] Best ways to reach out and connect with Kacie [27:56] Ending show and calls to action Notable Quotes ● In states where medical-aided dying is legal, death doula service is a very significant tool in that whole process. [07:41] ● We can all take a little bit of education, but it closes the gap when it gets blended with hands-on experience. [08:26] ● As much as there are no set requirements for one to become a death doula, choosing an appropriate training program is important if you do not have a medical background. [10:03] ● Part of becoming a successful death doula is getting in front of all the people you want to work with. Once people know who you are, what you are doing, and how you can help, the referrals will start rolling in. [17:02] Let’s Connect Kacie Gikonyo Website: www.deathdoulakacie.com Facebook: @deathdoulakacie IG @deathdoulakacie TikTok: @deathdoulakacie Kacie@deathdoulakacie.com Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.hospiceexplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice Marie@HospiceEncounters.com Leave a Voicemail: 206-705-3080

Ep.83 How to Have a Living and Everlasting Connection With Loved Ones Using DNA-Filled Products || Dave Latorra and Stephanie Ford Do you want something to hold onto as a treasure for your loved one for many generations? How about storing their DNA in a piece of jewelry? Photos get old and tattered, and recordings may also not do well. Join this conversation with Dave Latorra and Stephanie Ford, co-founders and co-owners of DNA is Love. They offer personalized DNA-filled products like jewelery and picture frames for people and pets that give them an opportunity to hold onto and cherish lasting remembrances of loved ones. Dave is a molecular biologist, and Stephanie comes from the hospice care field. Together, they have leveraged their skills and experiences to bring meaningful and tangible keeps for people to hold and cherish for generations. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guests, Dave and Stephanie [01:40] A bit about Stephanie's background [03:02] Her role in hospice [03:27] Dave's background [04:40] How the two came together and how the idea came to life [05:41] How they carry out the DNA process and the entire thing [07:41] How to get your product made and the time frame it takes [09:55] Examples of some customizable products you can choose [13:44] The most popular product [15:24] An in-depth DNA processing technique Dave uses [17:52] How do you receive the product after it is made? [19:01] Can the hair be used for unexpected deaths? [24:53] Ending show and calls to action Notable Quotes We are much more alike than we are different. DNA shows we are 99.9% similar and just 0.1% unique. [14:46] Life is short, and things happen; sometimes, people leave before their time. Take the DNA samples on time. [18:28] DNA is our connection to our genealogy. [23:11] Let’s Connect Dave and Stephanie Website: https://dnaislove.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.hospiceexplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice Marie@HospiceEncounters.com Leave a Voicemail: 206-705-3080

Ep. 82 Conversation Starters with Cards from the E*O*L Deck Thank you for listening and I want to remind you coming soon is the Hospice Explained member community On Hospice Explained Episode # 56 I interviewed Lisa pahl Lisa is a social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, games that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hospice-explained-podcast/id1558665301 If you are interested in Purchasing the Cards: Here is my affiliate link https://thedeathdeck.com/?ref=c8is9vi6 ( Hospice Explained will get a small Commission if you use this link, Thank You!) https://thedeathdeck.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice

Ep.81 Dying Well and Making Death A Beautiful Experience with Tamala May ARNP Facing the end of life is a deeply personal journey, and finding beauty in this inevitable part of our existence involves embracing the process and ensuring it is filled with meaning. At the end of life, hospice timely care is a crucial companion, offering support that goes beyond just medical attention. Hospice provides a space for you or your loved one to transition with comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being. Dying well is not just about the physical aspects; it's about making the most of the experience, cherishing moments, and connecting with loved ones. Making death a beautiful experience is about creating a comfortable and peaceful environment for reflection, reconciliation, and solace. It is a reminder that even in the face of mortality, there is an opportunity to shape a narrative that reflects the profound beauty of a life lived, and a farewell embraced with grace. In this episode, we are joined by Tamala May, an Oncology Nurse practitioner, founder of Pursuing Christ Ministries, and author of Starting The Journey. From an early age, Tamala discovered her calling to become a nurse and began her journey at the age of 16 as a nursing assistant. She continued pursuing her passion after graduating from high school and obtaining her degree as a registered nurse. For over 8 years, she gained diverse experience in hospitals and clinics before transitioning to a ward and cancer center. Several years later, an exciting opportunity led her to serve as a home, health, and hospice nurse in North Dakota. Later, she furthered her education by earning a degree as a nursing practitioner. In her initial work, she worked in family practice and oversaw oncology care in North Dakota, but later, she transitioned into a full-time oncology practitioner. Tamala's responsibilities span both clinic and hospital settings, where she works closely with patients facing end-stage disease, frequently facilitating their transition to hospice care. Navigating this delicate phase of life has fueled a genuine passion for approaching death with meaning and compassion. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Tamala May [02:16] Meet Tamala and learn more about her backstory [02:55] Tamala’s job as an oncology nurse and why it’s unique [04:38] How Tamala works with different expertise and the palliative care team [07:31] How Tamala navigates her oncology role in both the clinic and hospital set up [08:46] The best way to bring up the end-of-life conversation with patients and families [12:42] How patients at the end of life get ready for their death [15:17] How to handle a family that doesn’t want to let their loved one know they’re dying [16:40] Do not resuscitate and moving into comfort care discussions [22:06] Tamala’s one message to help patients improve their hospice experience [24:13] Dying well and making the most of our dying experience [25:26] Examples of beautiful deaths Tamala has encountered [29:13] The most profound end-of-life story that touched Tamala [33:19] Tamala’s book and what inspired her to write it [37:40] Ending show and calls to action Notable Quotes ● Every patient is different, and you have to figure out where your patient is at on the spectrum of understanding their disease and prognosis when bringing up the end-of-life subject. [08:46] ● Death doesn’t wait until we are ready to die or can accept it; it’s going to come either way, and we need to help people get to the point of being comfortable with accepting death. [11:03] ● All of us need to think about dying well and how we want to spend those days and make the most of our dying experience; death is something all of us are going to experience. [24:58] ● Hospice can be one of the most beautiful things, but it’s so under-understood, and sometimes people miss being able to treasure that time because...

Ep. 80 More Conversation Starters with Cards from The Death Deck Thank you for listening and I want to remind you coming soon is the Hospice Explained member community On Hospice Explained Episode # 56 I interviewed Lisa pahl Lisa is a social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, games that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hospice-explained-podcast/id1558665301 If you are interested in Purchasing the Cards: Here is my affiliate link https://thedeathdeck.com/?ref=c8is9vi6 ( Hospice Explained will get a small Commission if you use this link, Thank You!) https://thedeathdeck.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice

Ep.79 Enhancing Care and Decision Making at the End of Life with Chaplain Hank Dunn Facing the end of life can be really tough for both patients and their families. There are many hard decisions to make, like what kind of medical care to have or not. These decisions are not only hard emotionally but can also be confusing. Finding the right balance between respecting the patient's wishes and caring for the family's needs can be challenging, but it can become easier with the right education and information. In this episode, Chaplain Hank Dunn shares his journey and ministry to patients at the end of life, the importance of end-of-life education, and how he helps patients and families with end-of-life decisions. Chaplain Hank Dunn has been ministering to patients at the end of life since 1983. He served as a nursing home chaplain at Fairfax Nursing Center and as a staff chaplain for the Hospice of Northern Virginia, now Capital Caring. To help him explain end-of-life decisions to patients and families, Hank wrote a booklet to hand to them so they could reflect on the issues discussed. As an afterthought, he sent the book out to other institutions to see if they would be interested in purchasing it for the people they serve, which led him to his first book, "Hard Choices for Loving People," Hank Dunn is also a frequent speaker on topics related to the end of life. He enjoys backpacking, kayaking, and hiking. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Chaplain Hank Dunn [02:05] Hank's backstory and how he got into ministering to patients at the end [04:07] Hank’s findings on people's knowledge of the end-of-life decision [07:10] Why people are still struggling with the end of life decisions [08:27] The one thing that Hank finds people has the least knowledge on [10:21] How to improve hospice experience for patients and families [11:45] What Hank does as a Chaplain at the end-of-life care [16:34] How Hank practices emotional self-care [19:01] Hark books and the information they provide for the end of life [20:57] Tips on how to get the hard conversations rolling [23:21] Hark’s favorite patient memory and story [27:38] The pediatric side of hospice care [29:32] How to reach out and connect with Hank [31:01] Ending show and calls to action Notable Quotes Get in the hospice sooner rather than later. [09:26] The most important question you can ask a patient or a family is, “What is important to them.” [20:06] Extending life might not be the most important thing to a family or a patient; sometimes, the most important thing might be their family staying together or the patient being comfortable. [21:31] Resources Mentioned Hard Choices for Loving People by Hack Dunn: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Love-Courage-Compassion-Hospice/dp/B0CKVGH6XN Light in the Shadows by Hack Dunn: https://www.amazon.com/Light-Shadows-Meditations-Life-Threatening-Illness/dp/0997261234 Let’s Connect Hack Dunn Website: https://hankdunn.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/hospicechaplainhank/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hard-Choices-for-Loving-People-191343157564700 Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.hospiceexplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice Marie@HospiceEncounters.com Leave a Voicemail: 206-705-3080

Ep. 78 Conversation starters with Cards from The Death Deck Thank you for listening and I want to remind you coming soon is the Hospice Explained member community On Hospice Explained Episode # 56 I interviewed Lisa pahl Lisa is a social worker and co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, games that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hospice-explained-podcast/id1558665301 If you are interested in Purchasing the Cards: Here is my affiliate link https://thedeathdeck.com/?ref=c8is9vi6 ( Hospice Explained will get a small Commission if you use this link, Thank You!) https://thedeathdeck.com/ Marie's Contact: Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com http://buymeacoffee.com/hospice

Ep.77 Love and Compassion In Hospice and Palliative Care with Juli Boit. Hospice and palliative care involve more than just administering medical care. It's about listening intently to patients, understanding and honoring what matters most to them, and recognizing the inherent value in every individual, irrespective of the disease that may be claiming their life. Approaching patients with love, compassion, and genuine care isn’t just lovely but a fundamental aspect of providing dignified end-of-life care. The willingness to see the profound value in these moments and express it through our interactions is the cornerstone that defines the quality of the care provided. Learning to be present in patient care allows us to connect and provide care in deeply meaningful ways, which forms the bedrock of long-term commitment and enduring care. Juli is an author, community builder, and nonprofit leader working at the intersection of faith, global health, and human dignity. For 18 years, Julie has lived and worked in Africa, founding and serving as international director of Living Room International, a community-led nonprofit providing hospice and palliative care services to adults and children living in Western Kenya. As a family nurse practitioner, Juli has combined her duo passions of health care and social justice into a unique expression of love that provides desperately needed services in an underserved community. Juli is the author of Brave Love: A Nurse's Story of Courage and Compassion in a Kenyan Hospice. Julie emerges as a beacon of hope and a testament to the spirit of love. Her compelling memoir invites readers to embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart and soul of hospice care in Kenya. Tune in! Key Highlights from the Episode; [00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Juli Boit [01:49] About Juli's background and how she ended up working in Kenya [04:53] HIV and Hospice and how it drew Juli into Hospice Work [07:33] When Juli became a nurse practitioner and went to Kenya [08:16] The parameters of the hospital and the community Juli serves in Kenya [10:54] HIV and the end-of-life symptoms in the Kenyan demographic [14:57] How to affirm the value to the patients going through a disease process [17:26] Juli’s non-profit organization and its vision in providing care [19:56] Juli’s Funeral Home and the burial cultures of the people they serve [23:50] The pain of loss and the death that affected Juli the most [27:09] One thing Juli wants you to know about hospice and palliative care [32:02] Hospitality and how it has been a great piece in Juli’s work in Kenya [33:19] What Juli could have done differently in her journey [35:23] About Juli’s book, Brave To Love [37:02] How to reach out and connect with Julie [37:30] Ending show and calls to action Notable Quotes No matter what disease process someone is dying from, they need to feel valued and to be approached, touched, loved, and cared for. [14:38] The willingness to see the value of others in the care we provide, the interaction, and the way we listen is very important, and it doesn’t necessarily take a lot of time. [15:48] Staying present in the care that we provide can help us be human and allow us to care in meaningful ways. [17:05] Death is not failure, not when people have received the treatment they need, and there is the opportunity to listen and learn from the patient on the most important things to them. [27:38] If we don’t stay connected to compassion and our humanity, it can make it hard to be in hospice for a long time. [29:04] Resources Mentioned Brave Love by Juli Bolt: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Love-Courage-Compassion-Hospice/dp/B0CKVGH6XN Let’s Connect Juli Bolt Website: https://juliboit.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julimcgowanboit/ Marie's...

Ep. 76 Self Care for the Caregiver https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784