I knew then that my work was not only about bringing the sensations of love and kindness to a body traumatized by terminal illness, but was also to provide an open space in which final thoughts and emotions could be expressed. I received a call two days after our second session that Sandra had died. I felt a sadness, yet felt incredibly complete in the work we did together. People who are just getting to know me often ask if I find my work depressing. I do not.
Death is as significant as birth and midwives are needed at both events.
I find that my work not only helps move people through their final bodily transitions, but also recognizes and celebrates the value of their lives. There is no greater work that I could do. A pathologist is the only physician who can make the actual diagnosis of cancer. Based on detailed characteristics of the cells, it can be determined whether the tumor is benign or malignant. It is a common misunderstanding that a cancer diagnosis can be made on the basis of X-rays, mammograms, blood tests and physical examination.