Geraldine Doogue is one of Australia’s most respected journalists and broadcasters. And in this episode, Geraldine reflects on losing her husband, Ian Carroll, in 2011 — and the reality of walking beside someone you love through their final chapter. She talks openly about the moments of courage, the guilt that lingers, the memories that endure, and the relief of honouring Ian’s wish to die in hospital, not at home.

This is a conversation about love, loss, and the gift of presence. It’s also a reminder that the best death isn’t about where it happens — it’s about giving someone the dignity to choose.

FIND OUT MORE

If you’re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air—you’re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit violet.org.au to start the conversation.

CREDITS 

Host: Melissa Reader

Guest: Geraldine Doogue

Executive Producer: Lize Ratliff

Find out more about Violet atviolet.org.au

Geraldine Doogue is one of Australia&rsquo;s most respected journalists and broadcasters. And in this episode, Geraldine reflects on losing her husband, Ian Carroll, in 2011 &mdash; and the reality of walking beside someone you love through their final chapter. She talks openly about the moments of courage, the guilt that lingers, the memories that endure, and the relief of honouring Ian&rsquo;s wish to die in hospital, not at home.
This is a conversation about love, loss, and the gift of presence. It&rsquo;s also a reminder that the best death isn&rsquo;t about where it happens &mdash; it&rsquo;s about giving someone the dignity to choose.
FIND OUT MORE
If you&rsquo;re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air&mdash;you&rsquo;re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit<a href="https://violet.org.au/"> violet.org.au</a> to start the conversation.
CREDITS&nbsp;
Host:<a href="https://blog.violet.org.au/en/news/violets-ceo-shares-her-personal-story"> Melissa Reader</a>
Guest: Geraldine Doogue
Executive Producer:<a href="https://www.lizeratliff.com.au/"> Lize Ratliff</a>
Find out more about Violet at<a href="https://violet.org.au/"> </a><a href="http://violet.org.au">violet.org.au</a>

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.

You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.
You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers&mdash;it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

This is the show for all the people who are caught between caring for ageing parents, raising a family, and managing work—all while trying to live a good life. Listen in as some of Australia’s most trusted voices share their stories of Agehood: the tears, the frustration, the goodbyes, but also the laughs and moments of true joy along the way.

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