Living Through the End of Life is a locally produced mini-series (a first for KTWH). Each episode explores topics faced by those dying and their loved ones. A wide array of issues are explored, including health care directives, end-of-life medical decisions, the emotional and spiritual processes of leaving, grieving, and marking the passing of a human life. You’ll hear the stories and insights of health care practitioners, grief counselors, spiritual leaders, family members, and caregivers. Producer Katya Gordon and a team of dedicated radio volunteers made key connections across the community to bring this program to the airwaves. Thanks to all who have graciously shared their time and voice to bring this valuable and heartful information to all who choose to hear it. We also thank you, the listener, for your interest and your care concerning living through the end of life.
This episode features an interview with Ellen Hufschmidt, bereavement counselor and chaplain, who has served hundreds of families in Northern MN. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
This two part episode includes interviews with Wanda Paulson, Advanced Care Planning Program Manager, followed by Tim Robinson, a Medical Social Worker in Hospice. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
In this 3 part episode you’ll hear from Dr. Keith Peterson, Hospice Medical Director at Essentia Health, from Ellen Hufschmidt, a bereavement counselor and non spiritual chaplain who’ll speak about Death Doula’s, and from Kathy McQuinn, a retired Hospice Medical Social Worker, who shares both experiences and wisdom. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
This two part episode begins with Julie Johnson, a recently retired hospice nurse, who discusses the stages of death and ways to support those experiencing them. This is followed by a conversation with Karen Johnson who shares experiences she, her siblings, and other loved ones had while supporting their mother, at home, through her dying process. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
In this 3 part episode you’ll hear Anne Archibald, a natural burial provider and Ellen Hufschmidt, a ritualist and frequent guest, explain several green burial options, Jerry and Alex Cavallin at Cavallin funeral home discuss changing & personalized funeral options, and Diane Dickey who shares the story of a recent green burial for her family’s loved one. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Katya speaks with Paul Treuer who shares the moving and sacred story of the at-home support and eventual in-home funeral for his father ( this event took place prior to the pandemic). This is followed by returning interviewee, Ellen Hufschmidt, who shares the gift of a body blessing practice that can be performed at any time. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Today’s topic features Chaplain Craig Carlson who gives us his perspective on serving those who have learned they are now at the end of their life. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Katya speaks with Gina Dixon, a grief and loss counselor, about compassionate counsel around varied paths of grief following the death of loved ones. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Retired Physician and author, Dr. Jim DeMaine, discusses death with dignity and individual choice by sharing stories and wisdom gained from his patients. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Vera Glenn, author of Dove at the Window: Living Dreams and Spiritual Experiences, discusses people’s dreams and experiences with deceased loved ones, as well as beliefs surrounding these experiences. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Lori Williams, social worker and bereavement counselor at St. Lukes Hospital, discusses services provided as well as her deep-hearted thoughts and advice about care for self and others through the journey of grief. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Katie Neff Dawson, Volunteer Supervisor at St. Mary’s Essentia Health, shares information and stories about hospice volunteers. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Kevin Rodlund, Nurse Manager at Solvay House, describes the services offered there, and Julie Luchsinger, a caregiver in a local congregate care facility, speaks of her experiences with people at the end of their lives when family cannot be physically present. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
Katya speaks with her cousin Val Younan, wife and mother, whose baby girl died almost two decades ago. Val’s reflections bring thoughtful and compassionate insights that serve the listener in ways hard to describe. (More information is located on the Overview and References page below).
