Outlouders, grief has no time for fancy words and clever jokes. In fact, it hasn't a lot of time for words, full-stop. It's a full-body experience that can change you on every level.

And at this time of year, loss, be it past or present, can feel all the more raw. That's why this episode of MID feels so important to share today. Interfaith minister, author and death-walker Dr Jackie Bailey has experienced a great deal of loss, and she spends her life walking others through it, helping people prepare for it, and acknowledging it when it happens.

If you think that makes for a depressing interview, you'd be wrong. Jackie is insightful, wise and funny, full of both practical and emotional support for the grieving. She's the perfect person to help us through the hard parts.

Links for Jackie Bailey:  
Jackie's tips on writing a eulogy
Read Jackie's eulogy for her mum here
You can buy a copy of Jackie's beautiful book here

Helpful links mentioned in the show: 
Advanced care planning website
A link to a printable advanced care directive wallet card here
The list of questions you can ask someone incase they become non-responsive
Palliative care help here.

THE END BITS: 

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CREDITS:

Host: Holly Wainwright

Executive Producer: Talissa Bazaz

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.