How to Attend Your Own Funeral
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In Diana Gabaldon’s book, “A Breath of Snow and Ashes,” one of the character’s mothers awoke at her own wake. She took notice of her uncomfortable coffin, lack of brooch that she hoped to wear when she was buried, and lack of food for guests. She sat up and admonished her son who was scared stiff, and then she died once again, for real this time. Her son promptly made the situation more comfortable for his
mother and their guests.
This does not typically happen in real life, unless you count the innumerable reports (from psychics and mediums) of spirits attending their own funerals. However, it truly is possible to attend your own funeral / memorial service / celebration of life. What Next Avenue calls a “living funeral,” perhaps better called a “living tribute,” is becoming more common every day.
In a modern-day example, Laurie describes attending her friend Jessica’s funeral a month before Jessica died of cancer. She explains how it was a glorious, sunlit afternoon full of friends and music. The “party” included a crowd of all of her best friends and family. There were her favorite brownies, cakes, and drinks for the guests to enjoy, as well as an IV drip for her. Jessica's daughter read the emails
from the people who couldn't be there in person. Her husband gave a speech about their life together and the trips they took. The crowd gathered around a piano and sang "Piano Man," her favorite song by her favorite artist, Billy Joel. Her doctor said he'd never had a patient who'd done anything like it, and that he hopes he has more.
When Jessica passed away, her friends and family found themselves devastated, as can be imagined. However, everyone was at peace because they had taken the time to tell each other everything there was to say before she died, and because they were able to say goodbye to her. Laurie strongly believes that if she has the chance to host the same kind of party someday, she absolutely will.
Experiencing Your Own Funeral
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Certified Elder Law Attorney and Medicaid Asset Protection Expert, Evan H. Farr, CELA, has written four best-selling books in the field of elder law. For more information and to order, click here.
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