by mforde | Nov 2, 2018 | Grief, Healing, Hospice
Peso’s death was the richest experience of my life. Excruciating, exquisite — and everything in-between. I am so thankful to have been a witness to so many loving, beautiful ceremonies and rituals around death through my work. The people and families I have served all...
by mforde | Aug 16, 2018 | Grief, Healing, Hospice
Last week one of my co-workers died from suicide at the Golden Gate Bridge. On the day I found out I drove from SF to Marin to attend a supportive gathering in his honor. This meant I had to drive over the bridge, which I felt very nervous about. As I approached our...
by mforde | Dec 12, 2017 | Hospice
The bat symbolizes darkness, letting go, death and re-birth. Even my animal spirit guide cards have got my number. There is no avoiding my assignment, no escaping my mission. It always comes back to death. I always find myself in the dark. And I wouldn’t have it any...
by mforde | May 8, 2017 | Hospice
I have been present for moments surrounding nearly a thousand deaths, an honor that few experience, but to me, is much more than a job. As a hospice nurse I have borne witness to some of the most profound moments of people’s lives, the end for some, and the loss, pain...
by mforde | Mar 4, 2016 | Hospice
This week the activities of my profession included attending the death of a 5 year old little girl, helping her parents gently wrap her body in a blanket, and hugging them tight while her body was removed from their home. The most common thing I am asked about my work...