Few of us know when we’re going to die and that’s no bad thing. But dying is a natural part of the life cycle, although this last 50 years or so we have sought to sanitise it somewhat and remove it from home. Then when we do lose a loved one we maybe aren’t prepared, don’t know what they wanted or who to ask.
‘Dying Matters’ is an organisation that aims to raise public awareness about the importance of talking more openly about dying, death and bereavement and of making your wishes known. Having a conversation about death doesn’t mean it’s going to happen any time soon, but with a little bit of planning it can make things much easier for your family.
Some people make a ‘bucket list’ with a few things they want to do before they die. Maybe a bungee jump or a visit to a particular place. What would you like to do?
Have you made a will? It needn’t be complicated, but a simple will means that what you leave goes where you want it to. Or have you thought about Funeral Plans, again it helps to keep the cost down by paying in advance and doesn’t become a problem for the family when you’re not here.
What about Organ Donation or even leaving your body to medical science. There is such a shortage of donors it could be lifesaving for several people. If you make your wishes known, when the time comes it’s a much easier decision.
Maybe think about where you want to be as well — in hospital, at home, a hospice? Would you like a church service or just a cremation or a woodland burial. Instead of the usual wood coffin how about a cardboard one or a willow basket or even a painted one maybe in your favourite team’s colours? That would get the neighbours talking.
The choice is very varied nowadays. Music often plays special part as well and favourite songs include, My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion, Angels by Robbie Williams, the theme tune from Match of the Day and Flying Without Wings by Westlife. The list is endless.
On Tuesday 15th May from 10.00am to 12.00pm at St Bartholomew’s Church Rooms there will be a Coffee Morning to have that conversation. It will be friendly and informal. There will be coffee and cake, lots of information, leaflets to take home and read. Someone from the hospice will be there to answer your questions as well as Jeremy or Lorraine from Maltby Independent Funeral Directors.
Let’s get Rotherham talking and help us live our lives now with a bit of planning for the future on the side.