-
Chemotherapy Shortages Impact Cancer Treatments
Two important cancer drugs are in limited supplySince the COVID-19 pandemic rocked the world, the interconnectedness of supply chain issues became much more apparent to the average consumer as things like toilet paper and bicycles became high-demand items. But now, chemotherapy drugs are also in short supply, with potentially deadly consequences for patients. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network conducted a survey in…
/
-
A Barbie Girl in a Deathless World Meets the Patriarchy
Greta Gerwig’s feminist film highlights the fallout of a cultural avoidance of deathEven if people haven’t yet seen “Barbie” — Director Greta Gerwig’s fuchsia-colored smash summer hit – they’re likely to have watched the trailer, in which Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, brings her house party to a record-scratching halt with the question: “Do you guys ever think about dying?”
/
-
Helping a Dear Friend On Life Support to Die Peacefully
Designated as her healthcare proxy, I had to do right by herThis story is of Patti, as told by Irena Kaci. Our “Opening Our Hearts” stories are based on people’s real-life experiences with loss. By sharing these experiences publicly, we hope to help our readers feel less alone in their experience of grief and, ultimately, to aid them in their healing processes. In this article, we…
/
-
“Making Friends with Death”
In her field guide Making Friends with Death, Pritchett begins with a formative experience of helping her mother dig up an old skeleton blocking an irrigation ditch on their landLaura Pritchett, author of five novels, “came from a chaotic, strange, ranch-y, farm-y, science-y family,” which made her “familiar enough with life” and helped her “get familiar enough with death” by the time she was a teenager. Helping her mother dig up an old skeleton that was blocking an irrigation ditch on their land is…
/
-
“Maman”: An Artist’s Ode to Her Mother
Louise Bourgeois’ towering sculpture of a spider speaks to the complexities of a mother’s roleThe French artist Louise Bourgeois lost her mother when she was just 21. It was a complicated yet familiar situation: the two historically had a complex and at times even tumultuous relationship. But at the same time, Bourgeois felt she couldn’t go on without her beloved mother, Joséphine, whom she called her “best friend.” Deeply…
/
-
Our Monthly Tip: Care for a Grieving Student with a Back to School Gift
Milestones like going back to school for a new semester can be hard while mourning a loved oneOur Monthly Tip: While January 1 is often associated with goal setting and starting new chapters, those who are involved with education as a teacher or student often regard August in the same way. For many, the end of summer marks a transition as they re-train themselves to go to bed earlier and wake up…
/
-
Wildfires: Long-term Health Risks and How to Protect Yourself
The impacts of breathing wildfire smoke can be lastingSummer 2023 has already been marked by a tragic number of wildfires. The Hawaii island of Maui is still reeling from the fires that engulfed the historic city of Lahina and killed dozens of people, while Canada is experiencing the worst year on record for wildfires. A brutal combination of drought across large swaths of…
/
-
Exploring the Drug Problem No One Talks About: Overprescribing to the Elderly
How polypharmacy endangers older adultsAs U.S. adults live longer, and with more chronic conditions, they are consuming increasingly large numbers of pills – a situation known as “polypharmacy.” But taking multiple medications can put patients at risk for adverse reactions – not to mention drain their wallet. They can also become confusing to track. But the worst part? Some…
/
-
Crafters Tie Up Loose Ends for Ill or Deceased Loved Ones
Volunteers Finish Handmade Projects They Left BehindAvid knitters and crafters do not like loose ends. When they start a project, they aim to finish it. But in some cases, debilitating illness or death means they can no longer complete that something special for someone. And knowing how much that project meant to a loved one can be upsetting for families. Enter…
/
Want an Easier Way to Plan a Memorial Event? Get our FREE guide
“7 Ways to Create an Amazing Celebration of Life”
