S3E2 | The Parallels of Death and Divorce: Healing Amidst the Chaos with End-of-Life Doula Abigail McGurty

In this episode of The Good Divorce Show™, Karen McNenny speaks with Abigail McGurty, a trained Sacred Passage Doula and Conscious Dying Coach, about the parallels between end-of-life care and divorce. They explore the significance of grief, the concept of a 'good death' and 'good divorce', and the importance of rituals in processing loss. The conversation delves into the non-linear nature of grief, the impact of ambiguous loss, and the necessity of support during transitions. Abigail shares insights on making meaning after loss and the importance of planning for end-of-life issues, emphasizing that both death and divorce are human experiences that deserve compassion and understanding.

Takeaways - Divorce can be seen as a significant ending, similar to death

- Grief is often a slow and non-linear process - A good death is about honoring the individual's choices and identity - Ambiguous loss can occur in both death and divorce situations - Rituals can help in processing grief and marking transitions. - Resistance to grief can be common, but surrender is part of the process - It's important to recognize the continuum of grief - Making meaning after loss is essential for healing - Support systems should be tailored to individual needs during grief

- Planning for end-of-life issues can start at any time, not just in crisis

ABIGAIL MCGURTY

About Abigail

For just over 10 years, Abigail worked as a registered nurse in a variety of settings. Beginning as an oncology nurse and later transitioning to critical care nursing proved to be a journey that changed her perspective on many things, including end-of-life care. Abigail realized early in her career that end-of-life was a precious time, but with more experience and reflection, it became apparent that the dying process also holds the capacity for deep human significance. Exploring this significance ultimately led to her discovering the role of doulas in end-of-life care.

Abigail is trained as a Sacred Passage Doula and Conscious Dying Coach through the Conscious Dying Institute in Boulder, CO. As a doula, keeping people, the richness of their lived experiences and the values they hold is central to the support that is provided.

Within this role Abigail is poised to provide holistic and compassionate care. She hopes that by listening with compassion and creating a space for people to ask questions both big and small, the dying process can be experienced with more comfort and ultimately less fear.

Resources from the Episode

- Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross And The Five Stages of Grief®