Palliative and End of Life Care, 04/08/2024

RTL Today - The Lisa Burke Show

Facing the end of life, often away from family if we are ex-pats, means we lean on others for support. Omega 90 is one such place, and through this conversation we discuss end of life preparation for ourselves and our loved ones.
My guests this week are:
- Claire Jordan, who cared for a friend to the end, with the support of Omega house
- Nancy Burg, a volunteer at Omega 90
- Maurizio Cortesi, psychologist and volunteer
- Fabian Weiser, Finance and Administrative Director at Omega 90
Palliative care is often considered a taboo topic, typically only discussed when these life events hit us. Preparing for the end of life is not something we commonly talk about with family or friends, although the very need for preparation can, in fact, help hugely at a time when people are emotionally drained. This stigma can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, whether due to a lack of awareness about options or an unwillingness of others to face death with us.
Claire Jordan intimately shares her journey with Omega 90, recounting her friend Denise Clark’s battle with cancer. Through Denise's diagnosis and eventual transition, Omega 90 provided not just medical care but a sanctuary of peace and dignity. Claire reflects on the transformative experience of moving from the clinical setting of a hospital to the warm, supportive environment of Omega 90, likening it to “walking into a 5-star hotel”.
Nancy Burg and Maurizio Cortesi speak about the importance of confronting mortality openly and early, both when working within palliative care and for one's own well-being. Maurizio, drawing from his experience in grief counselling, discusses the unpredictable nature of grief, emphasising the need for environments where individuals can mourn without judgement.
Fabian highlights the importance of a will, not simply about where one's possessions but also about how we would like to pass in case we are unable to consciously make and/or communicate decisions. Examples of this range from euthanasia to power of attorney.
Death inevitably affects everyone on this planet. The stigma surrounding this stage of life does not have to be so burdensome. By starting a larger conversation about it, the aim is to raise awareness of its importance and normalise the discussion.
Palliative care is a very important last step of life for many.
Find the link to the will from the omega website here and to donations and fundraising here.
https://www.omega90.lu/db/2/1432585784850/1