Author Archives: Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

“How We Die” by Sherwin Nuland

After winning a National Book Award in 1994, Nuland’s groundbreaking treatise on death still holds weight today
Posted on April 15, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Sherwin Nuland, an accomplished surgeon, wrote “How We Die: Reflections on Life’s Final Chapter” in an effort to reveal the grim realities surrounding death; the fact that “by and large, dying is a messy business.” He was motivated to do … Continue reading →

Posted in Lending Insight | Leave a comment

Heart Disease, Stroke and Alcohol-Related Death Toll Spiked During COVID-19

New research shows the pandemic is contributing to deaths from other causes
Posted on April 1, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

As the COVID-19 death toll in the U.S. nears 1 million, research is beginning to illuminate the manner in which the pandemic has contributed to a rising death rate from other causes, including heart disease, stroke and alcohol. While non-pandemic … Continue reading →

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Young and Grieving: The Key to Supporting Bereaved Children

Michaeleen Burns of Judi’s House explains how individuals, communities and governments can better care for millions of bereaved children and caregivers
Posted on March 16, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Child and family psychologist Michaeleen (Micki) Burns can relate to bereaved children. She was first drawn to the field because she was inspired by her parents to give back. Her father was a school teacher and her mother raised eight … Continue reading →

Posted in Professional Advice | Leave a comment

Deathbed Visions: You Say “Goodbye,” and I Say “Hello”

The dying regularly report visits from dead friends, relatives and even pets during their final weeks or hours
Posted on March 6, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

When actress Betty White, best known as one of the original “Golden Girls,” died in December 2021 at the age of 99, her last word was reportedly “Allen.” Allen Ludden was White’s third husband and the great love of her … Continue reading →

Posted in Something Special | 2 Comments

Our Monthly Tip: Create a Memorial Wreath

Wondering how to support a friend in grief? Offer this beautiful gift
Posted on February 26, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Our Tip of the Month While flowers are often abundant at funerals, the coming days can be devoid of their comforting scent, color and cheer. If your friend has lost a spouse or another dear loved one, making them a … Continue reading →

Posted in Practical Tips | Leave a comment

“Halley’s Comet” by Stanley Kunitz

Personal loss mirrors existential dread in poem's return to youthful innocence
Posted on February 14, 2022 by Rachel Jones (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

Miss Murphy in first grade wrote its name in chalk across the board and told us it was roaring down the storm-tracks of the Milky Way at frightful speed and if it wandered off its course and smashed into the … Continue reading →

Posted in The Next Chapter | Leave a comment