Being Mortal by Atul Gawande was instrumental in my journey to becoming an End-of-Life Doula. It is the first book I recommend whenever someone asks where to begin. I encourage individuals and families not only to read it, but more importantly, to talk openly about the themes of death and dying that it explores.
This book inspired me to find ways to help make conversations about death feel more natural and less intimidating, while recognizing that death is a part of all our lives. It should not arrive as a complete surprise. By normalizing conversations about death, we create space for thoughtful planning, deeper understanding of one another’s beliefs and wishes, and greater clarity around what matters most.
Talking about death also invites us to reflect on how we want to live. It helps us uncover our values, priorities, and the kind of legacy we hope to leave behind.
There are countless resources available to deepen our understanding of death and dying, as well as to support planning for the final chapter of life. The resources shared here can serve as a starting point for meaningful conversations with loved ones, friends, and your circle of care.
BOOKS: Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, there are endless options for books that explore the themes around death and dying.
MOVIES & SHOWS: Sharing a movie with someone is a great way to gently engage in a conversation about death, given death and mortality are classic themes in motifs in books and art.
PODCASTS & WEBSITES: If you are more apt to listen to podcasts or do your research online, there are a number of options that focus on death and dying in Canada.