Death, Grief and Starting Again: Preparing for and dealing with the aftermath of death

Essential reading before you think you need it...

Diana Morgan's book, Death, Grief & Starting Again is about caring, dying, death and grief and then dealing with the bureaucratic aftermath as a surviving relative. This book is intended to be a guide for the distressed, a friend to the grieving, the confused and the bereaved, and a companion for those who need to put a new and different life together. It is equally valuable for the professionals - lawyers, medicos, vicars and funeral directors - who need to help their clients understand the complex choices available in the event of death.

Diana Morgan AM experienced the death of her beloved husband of forty seven years and then ten years later the unexpected deaths of two of her children. She has written the book she felt she needed at the time, that would have helped her. The book passes on the facts, the feelings and some possible solutions for this difficult time in our life.

Death is not talked about in our society. But everyone needs to face the fact that sooner or later it is likely that they will have to face a situation they have no experience in dealing with.

The book includes advice from many professionals who deal with end-of-life problems - the medical personnel, the lawyers, and the funeral directors. All of them said that people come to them for help often having no idea of what they need to know. The book advises on health directives and powers of attorney so that someone (most likely a family member) has the power to be of help, especially if sudden help is needed.

The author describes what needs to be considered during a slow illness, how to deal with medications and disabilities and gives guidance to the many ways that the health system is able to provide assistance and advice.

Death can be expected or sudden, a shock. This book has been written by someone who has discovered that no Death is just a Death. The effects of a death never ends with the death - a death can cast long shadows - for the family emotions, relationships and for the paperwork, for the lives of all those around. And the roll-on effects can sometimes last a very long time.