Writing one's way through grief
Camille Adair Norwick, who is a hospice nurse and educator, teamed up with Tanya Taylor an actress, writer and co-creator of The Cancer Monologue Project and The AIDS Monologues, about eight months ago to begin work on a documentary film about the dying process,
The Soul of Dying.
Norwick recalled caring for a friend who, shortly before his death, said to her, "You're going to help me die, and I'm going to help you help others to die."
Norwick stressed it's important for people who are dying to have someone to help them on their journey. Often, everyday people find themselves in the unexpected position of primary caregiver when someone close to them is struck with a terminal illness. Caregivers often put their lives on hold to help others die, she said.
Getting out of that holding pattern is tough. So many things change throughout the dying process that you lose and alienate yourself. I suppose I'm not really surprised with the road I've chosen since Craig died, but damn, I wish it were easier and not as lonely. The words in bold above echo in my ears. I hope this film gives people some understanding.
posted by Cyndy
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