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Did you ever walk through a cemetery and wonder about the tombstones? Who designs, creates, and maintains these permanent memorials to honor our departed loved ones? If you make this kind of investment, you should know what to expect at each stage of the process. A headstone is more than someone’s name with the dates of their birth and death. Would you like to know how to add personal touches to a permanent memorial for a loved one lost? If you want to know more about designing permanent memorials, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about headstone options in Vancouver, BC. A permanent memorial is a place where we can go to pay our respects to those who are no longer of this earth. This episode is your chance to learn more about this funeral tradition. Obtaining a Permanent Memorial in a Cemetery The episode begins with Valerie sharing what steps you need to take to obtain a permanent memorial for a departed loved one after they are placed in a cemetery. Then Valerie explains how a funeral chapel like Martin Brothers can help when it comes to choosing and designing a gravestone to permanently memorialize your loved one lost. This kind of monument is something a family can design together. Did you know some families design headstones and have them put into place while the recipient is still alive? Different Types of Materials and Designs Next Valerie shares about the different types of materials and designs of permanent memorials. She goes on to answer questions such as: How does the type of monument affect its future in the cemetery? Does a headstone have to retain the traditional geometric shape? What is the most common material used in permanent memorials? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want a specific design on my headstone? Do I want to choose something besides a traditional headstone shape? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then Martin Brothers can help you start planning today. Maintaining Gravestones after a Funeral Then Valerie explains about the upkeep that a family might consider when designing permanent memorials. She also points out how the weather and climate in Vancouver might affect the amo

Have you ever attended a funeral that was different than what you’ve come to expect? Will your service incorporate traditions from your family’s culture? Cultural traditions preserve our family history and shape our personal identity, from the day we are born until time for our funeral. Different cultures have different traditions for creating memorial services for their loved ones lost. Are you aware of the various cultural funeral traditions that exist in Vancouver? If you want to know more about cultural funeral traditions, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about the topic based on her first-hand knowledge. Funerals allow us to pay our respects to a loved one who has passed away. This podcast is an opportunity to learn how different cultures memorialize their departed family and friends. When You Aren’t Sure What to Do Next at a Funeral Valerie kicks off the episode by addressing what the best thing to do is if you’re attending a funeral service but do not know about the specific traditions. Next Valerie offers a suggestion for those whose beliefs are compromised by a tradition, or are unsure how to respond to funeral rituals that offer an opportunity to participate in a tradition. When attending a funeral, it is important to remember that you are there to pay your respects to the deceased. Can you see how making this a priority can help at this type of service? Interesting Funeral Traditions Then Valerie talks about some interesting ways that certain religions or cultures conduct funerals. During this episode she addresses questions like: Do interesting traditions take place within North America? What are “grave goods” and does this practice happen in Canada? Are coffins shaped pretty much the same in all parts of the world? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I plan to request cultural funeral traditions? Am I ready to save my family the hassle of trying to guess what I want at my service? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then it’s time to visit Martin Brothers’ website, listed below. Altering Funeral Traditions from Other Cultures Next you’ll hear Valerie share how funeral traditions might be al

Have you ever heard of someone requesting no funeral service? Do you ever consider not having a funeral service yourself? When this happens, loved ones face the challenge of honouring the deceased’s final wishes while allowing themselves a time of mourning. After someone passes away who has requested no funeral, their loved ones truly have no say in the matter. Can you see the benefits of discussing funeral planning sooner than later? If you want to know more about when a loved one requests “no funeral service”, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about the topic. Funerals are a healthy part of the mourning process. This interview is a chance to learn about alternatives for celebrations of life that don’t include planning a memorial or funeral service. Why Do Some People Request “No Service”? The episode begins with Valerie explaining why some people request “no service” when it comes time to commemorate their life. Then Valerie goes on to explain the purpose of a funeral service and what happens to the attendees who attend a service at the funeral chapel in Vancouver. It’s only natural that we want to respect the wishes of a departed relative or friend. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to celebrate their life without going against their last requests? Commemorating a Loved One Lost without a Service Next Valerie outlines some funeral or memorial service alternatives. She answers questions such as: Are there ways to announce someone’s death without planning a funeral? Is it okay for family to gather together to reminisce about our loved one lost? What other things can we do at the funeral home without having an actual funeral? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I plan to request “no funeral service”? Am I aware of anyone who plans to request their family skip the process? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then you may be interested in hearing Valerie’s thoughts on the topic.. How Can a Family Mourn While Respecting a Person’s Wishes? Then Valerie segues to some ways people can meet their own needs to mourn while honoring a departed loved one’s wishes of “no funeral service”.

Have you ever found yourself mourning someone you do not personally know? Does tragedy in the news upset you, as if you’d lost a loved one? When media alerts citizens about a tragedy in the news, many people share the emotions of the people who experienced it firsthand. Although this is a topic we hope we never have to discuss, tragic events can impact people many miles away. Have you ever grieved for strangers who were victims of a tragedy? If you want to know more about coping with tragedy in the news, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who defines the term and offers suggestions for coping with it. Tragedies we hear about affect us, even if we weren’t there to experience it in person. This podcast is an opportunity to learn how to cope with grief after hearing of a tragedy in the news. Why Do We Grieve for Those We Don’t Know? Valerie kicks things off by explaining the grieving process, and how we become the bereaved after witnessing a tragic event. Next Valerie segues into some generalizations about things we might see in the news that could cause us to feel grief. Because we’re human, it’s natural for us to have compassion for others. How do you cope when you hear of a tragedy that took place somewhere else around the globe? How to Cope about Tragedy in the News Then Valerie discusses ways for coping with tragedy in the news. During the podcast she answers questions like: What are some ways we can grieve with others? Is it okay to keep our grief private and to ourselves? Where are some places in Vancouver we can go to grieve? Now ask yourself these two things: Do

Have you ever experienced mourning that you couldn’t discuss? Have you ever had someone close to you die, but found that their death wasn’t acknowledged by those around you? Disenfranchised grief is not just about losing someone, as Valerie explains in this episode. Sometimes when you confide in another about your grief, they interject with a personal tale that seems to be an attempt to one-up your experience. Have you ever had this happen? If you want to know more about disenfranchised grief, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who defines the term and offers suggestions for coping with it. Disenfranchised grief is just as important as any other type of grief. This episode is your chance to learn more about this type of grief and how to deal with it if you experience it. What Is Disenfranchised Grief? The episode begins with Valerie defining the phrase “disenfranchised grief”. Valerie explains what it is in plain terms and offers an example to help you understand how this type of grief differs from traditional forms of mourning over a loved one lost. Disenfranchised grief is perfectly normal and happens quite frequently. Based on Valerie’s definition, have you ever experienced this type of grief? Is It Okay to Grieve for Someone Who Isn’t in My Life Anymore? Next Valerie discusses grieving people who aren’t a part of our daily lives. She also provides the answers to questions such as: Is it okay to grieve an ex-spouse who isn’t in my life anymore? What are some benefits of grieving someone who isn’t in my life? Is there ever a time when it’s wrong to grieve the loss of someone?

Has anyone ever asked you about making funeral pre-arrangements? Do you ever think about how you’d like to be remembered by your loved ones after you’re gone? There’s more to making pre-arrangements for a memorial or funeral service than choosing songs, flowers, and a casket. Arranging these things in advance can relieve your loved ones of the burden of guessing at how you might have wanted them to remember you. Doesn’t your family deserve this peace of mind? If you want to know more about making funeral pre-arrangements, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who shares what you need to know to begin. This is not the first time Erik and Valerie have discussed this topic. This episode, however, is your opportunity to learn fresh insight about the advantages of planning funerals in advance. The Most Important Detail of Funeral Pre-Arrangements Valerie kicks things off by explaining the most important decision you need to make when you decide to pre-arrange your funeral or memorial service. During the podcast, she shares a common sentiment that families at the funeral home tell her once they’ve been through the process. Next Valerie details what you need to begin pre-arrangements for a funeral. Is the thing holding you back from making your arrangements the same one that Valerie reveals in this episode? The First Step in Funeral Pre-Arrangements Then Valerie outlines the funeral pre-arrangement process. During the podcast, she answers frequently asked questions like: Is it better to call or walk into the funeral chapel to make pre-arrangements? How much information do I need to begin funeral pre-arrangements? Are there any special documents that I need for making funeral pre-arrangements? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want to relieve my family of the burden of arranging my funeral? Am I ready to plan my memorial now? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then you’ll want to visit Martin Brothers’ website where you can start the process. The Advantage of Pre-Paying for Pre-Arrangements Next Valerie discloses the advantages of pre-paying for a funeral, even if you are very much alive and in good health at the t

Do you ever wish you had a list of resources to help an elderly person deal with loss? Are you feeling helpless because you have an elderly loved one who isn’t thriving in their golden years? Fortunately there are resources, and they are right here in the Greater Vancouver area. It’s important for seniors to have a place to go for practical tips on health and how to thrive after retirement. Can you see why this is an important resource for the entire community? If you want to know more about practical tips to help seniors, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who shares how to help the elderly thrive. In the last episode of the podcast, Valerie shared tips to help seniors deal with loss. This episode is your opportunity to hear more and learn how to help them thrive in their golden years. Where to Find Resources for Seniors The episode begins with Valerie sharing resources for families and friends who want to help seniors deal with loss and thrive in the golden age of their retirement. Then Valerie goes on to point out the one free resource every neighborhood in Vancouver has for seniors. She also shares resources for seniors who may have mobility issues. The support from a community can be as imperative to an elderly person as help from their biological family. Can you see how the resource Valerie mentions would help connect people? Some Losses Hit Harder than Others Next Valerie explains what loss hits the hardest for seniors. She goes on to answer frequently asked questions about practical tips to help seniors such as: Why are losses so hard on our elderly loved ones? What goes through a senior’s mind when a peer passes away? How do compounded losses affect grief for seniors? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want to help a senior adult thrive in the community? Am I an older person facing the loss of my peers? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then you’ll want to check out the resources Valerie mentions in this podcast. Slow vs Significant Changes in a Senior’s Life Then Valerie segues to the topic of action steps to make changes in the life of an elderly person, especially after a spouse dies and they are

Does a loved one’s passing make you more aware of the time you have left? Can you imagine how distressing this is for an elderly person? The word “retirement” brings to mind images of travel and golfing for many, but the “golden years” come with a definite downside. Loss can come in multiple forms as we grow older. We can lose our peers, our good health, and the ability to keep up with basic, day-to-day tasks. Isn’t the thought alone distressing enough? If you want to know more about helping seniors deal with loss, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who offers advice on the topic. Senior family members and friends need to find a new normal that respects loss if they’re going to live life to the fullest. This interview is a chance to learn how to help them achieve it. Helping Seniors Adapt to Their “New Normal” Valerie kicks off the episode by sharing how to help seniors who experience multi-dimensional loss, such as the loss of health, loss of job, loss of peers to death, and so forth. Next Valerie goes on to offer specific suggestions for how to be present for a senior family member or other loved one with respects to the other responsibilities we have in our lives. Multi-dimensional loss can affect a person’s mental health, as well. Can you see why helping seniors deal with loss is so important to our families and communities? Multiple Losses and a Dwindling Social Network Then you’ll hear Valerie discuss the impact of losing multiple peers on the social network of an elderly person. During the podcast she provides answers for questions such as: How can we make the elderly feel like a valued part of society? What can we do to help someone adapt to their new lifestyle? Do I have to make a grand gesture or can I do something small? Now ask yourself these two things: Is there an elderly person in my life? Am I a senior adult in need of ways to adjust to my “new normal”? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then Valerie’s advice may assist with helping seniors deal with loss. Seniors and the Risk of Depression Next Valerie touches on the topic of senior adults and depression. She explains why depress

In this interview, Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers in Vancouver talks about using family records in funeral services.

Have you ever thought about life from a caregiver’s point of view? Have you or someone you know felt overwhelmed with the emotional and physical exhaustion of caring for another? Caregivers often put their own needs aside to be there for a dying person. Caregivers are essential when someone needs at-home care. Are you aware of what signs to look for if a caregiver starts to feel fatigued from putting someone else’s needs above their own? If you want to know more about meeting the needs of the caregiver, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about caregiver fatigue. Caregivers play such an important role to an ailing loved one. This interview is an opportunity to learn how to meet a caregiver’s needs so they don’t become overwhelmed. Acknowledging Caregiver Fatigue Valerie begins the episode by addressing something we all need to acknowledge, which is when caregivers give so much to the people they’re caring for that they neglect their own needs. Next Valerie points out why it’s imperative that we recognize caregiver fatigue. Caregivers are not only essential to a single person or family, but also to our society. When we take care of the caregivers, they are better able to take care of us when the time comes. Symptoms of Caregiver Fatigue Then Valerie reviews some of the symptoms of caregiver fatigue. During the podcast she also provides answers related questions such as: Who is most likely to suffer from caregiver fatigue? What are common symptoms of fatigue in caregivers? How can I help if I see these signs in a caregiver? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I know someone who may be suffering from caregiver fatigue? Could I be responsible for someone’s care at the end of their life? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then you should know that Martin Brothers can assist you during this poignant time. How the Funeral Home Can Assist a Caregiver Next Valerie discusses some of the ways that a funeral home can help meet the needs of caregivers in their community. Valerie goes on to offer some specific ways that Martin Brothers can help caregivers in the Greater Vancouver area. There are two im

Do you know about some alternatives to traditional burial or interment services in Vancouver? Would your family prefer a unique way to scatter a loved one’s ashes? Scattering ashes at sea is a popular way to celebrate the life of a loved one lost. Summer is the perfect time for this type of funeral or memorial service. Can you imagine celebrating a loved one within the tranquil ambiance of being out on the water? If you want to know more about scattering ashes at sea services, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about this very unique service in Vancouver, BC. Scattering a person’s ashes is just as personal as attending a graveside service. This episode of the podcast is your chance to learn a unique way to scatter ashes while honoring your loved one. A Unique Service for a Lasting Memory The episode kicks off with Valerie walking us through what happens at a scattering at sea service, which takes place on a beautiful yacht. Then Valerie details what traditional funeral elements a family may choose to incorporate into this unique way of scattering a loved one’s remains. Scattering ashes at sea services are just as customizable as a service held at the funeral chapel, a church, or any other venue on land. Planning to Scatter Ashes at Sea Next Valerie gives an overview about decisions a family needs to make for scattering ashes at sea services. She also answers questions like: What traditional elements can my family include in a memorial at sea? Do I have to schedule the service at sea immediately after cremation? Who can I invite to a memorial for scattering a loved one’s ashes at sea? Is there a way to come back to revisit the site at some future time? Can my family scatter more than one person’s ashes in the same service? Now ask yourself these two things: Would I want scattering ashes at sea services as part of my final wishes? Would this type of service suit someone in my family? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the information below to start the pre-planning process. Observations from Families Who Scattered Ashes at Sea Then Valerie shares feedback from families who chose scattering

Have you talked to your family about your funeral or memorial wishes? Would you like to save them the added burden of trying to guess at how you might have wanted them to celebrate your life after you’re gone? Pre-planning and pre-arranging funeral services offer many benefits.   However, the two terms are not interchangeable. Do you know what each means and if it’s necessary to always do them both at the same time?   If you want to know more about pre-planning versus pre-arranging funerals, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about this necessary topic.   Talking about funeral plans and arrangements can be an upsetting topic for our loved ones. This interview is your opportunity to learn ways to discuss the topic of making final wishes known.   Pre-Planning Versus Pre-Arranging Funerals   Valerie begins the episode by explaining the difference between pre-planning versus pre-arranging funerals or memorials.   Next Valerie shares whether or not the two things have to done at the same time.   You’ll hear Valerie use the same phrases and terms in this episode that she uses with families who come into the funeral chapel in Vancouver.   Talking to Loved One about Funeral Wishes   Then Valerie acknowledges that pre-planning versus pre-arranging funerals is not an easy topic to bring up to your loved ones. During the interview she answers questions like:   When should I talk to my elderly parents about funeral pre-arrangements? What are some good conversation starters about pre-planning funerals? How can I bring up the topic of my final wishes to my adult children?   Now ask yourself these two things: Could I use more information about pre-arranging a funeral? Do I need help talking with my family about funeral pre-planning?   If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the information below to reach out to Martin Brothers. Valerie can offer publications to help you in this situation as well.   Healthy Communication with Families about Funerals   Next Valerie points out that not everyone in your fami

Have you ever seen a child attend a funeral or memorial service? Do you know a child who has suffered the loss of a beloved friend or family member? Children do not grieve in the same way that adults mourn the passing of someone they care about.   Talking about young children and death is important because life offers no guarantees. Can you imagine what goes through a young child’s mind when they grieve?   If you want to know more about young children and death, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about young children and how they grieve.   As with adults, no two children will grieve in the same way. This interview is a chance to learn resources and methods to help a child experience grief in a healthy manner.   Do Young Children Really Grieve?   The episode begins with Valerie pointing out that although the outward signs may differ, a child’s grief is every bit as real as an adult who is in mourning.   Then Valerie segues into an explanation about how children learn and how parents can use this knowledge to help their child make healthy progress through the various stages of grief.   During the podcast, Valerie draws on her experiences from working in the funeral home to better illustrate the topic of young children and death.   Preparing a Child for an Impending Loss   Next Valerie discusses how to explain a loved one’s impending death to a child. During the podcast she addresses the following questions:   How much should I tell my child about a loved one’s health What can I tell my child so they know this is not their fault? Is it necessary to answer questions a child asks repeatedly? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want to know more about young children and death? Could I benefit from advice about how to talk to a grieving child? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then be sure to share your comments below.   Signs of Healthy Grief in Young Children   Then Valerie shares signs to look for to gauge a child’s well-being during their time of mourning.   When it comes to young children and death, they go through the stages

Do you have an emotional support system during times of grief? Have you ever wondered about how someone would manage grieving alone? Maybe there was a time when you mourned someone and either had no one there or felt like nobody understood your situation. Working through the five stages of grief is challenging enough with an emotional support system in place. Can you imagine how much more complicated it is to experience the stages on one’s own? If you want to know more about grieving alone, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services, who offers grief resources and advice to help. No one has to be isolated with their grief. This interview is your opportunity to learn where you can turn if you ever find yourself in this situation. The Complications from Grieving Alone Valerie kicks off the podcast by explaining what it means to grieve alone and why some people may try to shut others out during their time of mourning. Next Valerie talks through some situations one may face after losing a beloved friend or family member. She explains how isolating your grief may complicate these instances. Also during the podcast, Valerie reveals the biggest complication that can happen if you try to shut others out while in mourning. Help for When You Have to Grieve Alone Then Valerie makes some suggestions for those who grieve alone - which she states is not always a bad thing. During this episode she provides answers to questions such as: When and for how long is it okay for me to grieve? How can I privately express my grief in a healthy way? Is it okay to share a private memory project with others? Now ask yourself these two things: Am I mourning a loved one lost? Do I feel alone with my grief? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then you may benefit from the resources Valerie shares in this episode of the podcast. Resources for Solitary Mourners Next Valerie offers advice about resources for people who grieve alone - especially if they find they want or need an outlet during this sensitive time. The funeral home is a wonderful resource for everyone in the community, ev

Do you ever wonder why people have funeral services? Who benefits when we pay our respects to a loved one lost? Understanding the reasons for memorializing someone can make it less stressful when it comes time to attend a service at the funeral home, church, or another venue. Sometimes details like religious preference or a family’s traditions can get in the way of the funeral planning process. Have you ever been to a funeral made stressful by bickering family members? If you want to know more about reasons why people have funeral services, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services who offers some insight. Regardless of the demographics, people around the world have customs for celebrating a departed loved one’s life. This interview is a chance to learn more about reasons why. Why Do People Have Funeral Services? The episode kicks off with Valerie sharing why families have funeral services after someone they love passes away. Then Valerie explains the reciprocal purpose of a funeral and how it benefits both the loved ones of the deceased and their community. Valerie draws on personal experience as she discusses the topic of this episode of the podcast. What if the Family Is not Religious? Next Valerie stresses that although family tradition is important, it does not have to be an imperative part of planning a funeral service. She also addresses questions like: What do family members think a funeral should look like? Are mourners required to follow a certain dress code? Does the casket have to be open during a memorial service? Now ask yourself these two things: Are you curious about why funerals take place? Do you want to save your family the stress of guessing about your final wishes when your time comes? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the link below to visit Martin Brothers’ website and begin the process of pre-arranging a service in the Greater Vancouver area. The Deceased and Their Funeral or Memorial Service Then Valerie discusses ways to respect the deceased’s final wishes while helping their loved ones gain some kind of closure at the service. Some families make one decision while planning

Have you ever wondered about the cremation process? When does cremation take place in relation to the death of a loved one lost? It’s important to understand what choices your family has when making arrangements at the funeral chapel. Not knowing what might happen to your loved one after they die can be as heartbreaking as their passing. Can you see where having your questions answered may provide a little closure? If you want to know more about cremation, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds talks with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about the answers to questions on the topic. The cremation process is a mystery to many outside the funeral home industry. This interview is an opportunity for an inside look from an experienced Vancouver, BC funeral director. The Process of Cremating Human Remains Valerie kicks off the episode by explaining what cremation is and a bit about its history. Next Valerie explains how the cremation process works in North America. It is a bit more involved than you might expect. During the podcast Valerie also gives a quick walk through of what happens during cremation. The Cremation Timeline Following a Death Then Valerie discusses the timeline for cremation in relation to when a person passes away. During the podcast she answers questions about cremation such as: What is the law regarding cremation after someone’s death? Is there a benefit to waiting to cremate a loved one lost? When is the soonest someone can be cremated after they pass? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I have questions about cremation? Am I interested in adding cremation to my funeral pre-planning wishes? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the link below to visit Martin Brothers’ website and begin the process of pre-arranging a funeral or memorial as well as finding answers to your questions about cremation. The Funeral Service and the Cremation Process Next Valerie explains the process of a traditional service followed by a cremation. She also offers a multitude of options to subdue common misconceptions. Martin Brothers in Vancouver, BC has a long history of assisting families with funeral planning after losing a loved one, from an expec

How can we make the best of the time we have with a loved one who will be passing soon? What can we do to prepare to lose someone who is near and dear to our heart? Knowing what to expect in this situation can be a weight off your shoulders when you’re facing a loved one’s death. When you’re at the bedside of a family member or close friend who is dying, it can be difficult to know what to do. Is this something you’ll have to face with an elderly or very ill loved one? If you want to know more about preparing for the death of a loved one, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds interviews Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about this topic. A loved one’s passing is such a tragic event. This interview is your chance to learn how to prepare when your loved one is expected to pass away soon. How to Begin to Prepare to Lose a Loved One This episode kicks off with Valerie discussing the different ways that you might prepare for the loss of a loved one who is expected to pass away soon. Then Valerie defines the term “anticipatory grief”. She goes on to explain why anticipatory grief is an important part of the overall grieving process. During the podcast you’ll hear Valerie share condolences she might use when talking with families who use Martin Brothers services at their funeral chapel in Vancouver. When to Contact the Funeral Home Next Valerie answers whether or not it is necessary for you to contact the funeral home before a loved one dies. She goes on to answer related questions like: When is the best time to contact the funeral home to prepare for a loss? Are there any benefits to contacting the funeral home before someone dies? What information does the funeral home need during the initial contact? Now ask yourself these two things: Is someone close to me expected to pass away in the near future? Do I want to know more about planning a funeral before someone dies? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the link below to visit Martin Brothers’ website and begin the process of pre-arranging a funeral or memorial service in Vancouver. What Can I Expect When a Loved One Passes? Valerie segues into walking us through what we can expect to happen if

Did you ever wonder how your family would celebrate your life after you’ve passed away? Have you ever wished you could make your own arrangements to save them the heartache? You may be surprised at all the benefits of pre-arranging funeral arrangements for the living. When people pass away without making their final wishes known, the chore falls upon their loved ones to make those choices. Is this a burden you want to put on your family and close friends? If you want to know more about pre-arranging funeral arrangements, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds interviews Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services about the advantages of early funeral planning. Pre-arranging funeral arrangements brings up a lot of frequently asked questions. This is your opportunity to hear the answers from an industry leader. When Do I Pay for a Pre-Arranged Funeral? The episode begins with Valerie addressing when the balance of payment comes due if you do go through the process of pre-arranging your own funeral at Martin Brothers in Vancouver, BC. Next you’ll hear Valerie explain how you might pay for your pre-arranged funeral over various lengths of time. The longest time period she mentions in this episode may surprise you. There is always the chance someone may pass away before paying in full for pre-arranged services at the funeral chapel. This podcast also reviews some options for families in that situation. Why Should I Pre-Arrange My Own Funeral? Then Valerie discusses the many reasons you might choose to pre-arrange a funeral service for either yourself or a loved one. She also provides answers to questions such as: What could go wrong with leaving my final wishes up to my family? Who is responsible for paying for my funeral if I do not plan ahead of time? How can I make sure my final wishes are respected by my family? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want to save my family the stress of planning my funeral? Am I ready to start pre-arranging funeral arrangements so my final wishes are honored? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then use the link below to visit Martin Brothers’ website and begin the process of pre-arranging a funeral or memorial service in Vancouver. Do I Have to Pre-Ar

Have you ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes of a funeral home? Do you ever wonder what funeral practices are like from the point of view of an employee? This special insight can help us overcome fear of the unknown when it comes to attending funeral services. Embalming helps sanitize and preserve a loved one lost to help the family under certain conditions. Have you ever wondered about the embalming process and its benefits? If you want to know more about a funeral service from an embalmer’s perspective, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds discusses the topic with Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services in Vancouver. Law, religion, and the health of the person prior to their death all make a difference in the practice of embalming. This podcast is your chance to learn more about why embalming takes place and if it is a requirement at Vancouver funeral homes like Martin Brothers. What Is Embalming? Valerie kicks off the episode by explaining what embalming is from her perspective as an embalmer at Martin Brothers in Vancouver. Then Valerie offers us a behind-the-scenes look at the embalming practices at a funeral home. She draws from past experiences to offer insightful examples that back up the information. There are many reasons why a family might choose or need embalming services for their loved one lost. You’ll hear several of the reasons during this podcast. Is Embalming an Absolute? Next Valerie discusses if embalming is a necessary requirement before the funeral or memorial service for a loved one lost. During this episode you’ll hear answers to questions like: How long can a family wait before making a decision about embalming? In what case would a body absolutely need to be embalmed before a service? Does the type of service influence the decision whether to embalm or not? Now ask yourself these two things: Do I want to save my family the stress of making these decisions? Am I interested in learning more about whether embalming is necessary? If you answered “Yes” to either or both of these questions, then Martin Brothers can offer advice. What Is the Value in Viewing the Deceased? Valerie then segues into the topic of why people hold a viewing and the value of having th

Are you aware of the grief caregivers feel after a loss? Do you know how to recognize unresolved grief in yourself as a caregiver for someone with a health issue? Caregivers have unique emotional needs, especially when mourning the loss of a patient. Today we will discuss caregiver grief in terminal illness and bereavement. Caregivers have compassionate hearts. Can you imagine the grief they feel after spending time taking care of a long term patient? If you want to know more about grief and loss when you are a caregiver, then listen to this episode of Forever in their Hearts, where host Erik Reynolds interviews Valerie Martell, Director of Operations for Martin Brothers Funeral Services, about caregivers and mourning. Many families may not consider the needs of the caregiver who has been closed to a loved one with a long term illness. This episode is an opportunity to learn not only how caregivers experience grief, but also tips to help them mourn in healthy ways. Coping Tools for Grieving Caregivers The episode kicks off with Valerie acknowledging caregiver grief. At the time of loss, caregiver grief in terminal illness and bereavement is very real and you need to understand they are greiving as well. It’s a very real type of mourning that people experience after losing someone who was in their care. Next the conversation segues to coping tools that caregivers can use to help deal with the grief they feel after someone who was in their care passes away. Even though caregivers often aren’t related to the person they’re looking after, they still experience grief. Fortunately there are things they can do to respectfully mourn a loss. Reinvesting Their Compassion for New Clients Then Valerie explains how a caregiver can release feelings of grief and reinvest them into compassion for their subsequent patients. She also answer questions such as: What protects caregivers from getting hurt from so much loss? Is there anything a caregiver can do to diminish their grief? Are caregivers limited to caring for long-term patients or clients? Now ask yourself these two things: Am I a caregiver trying to move through grief? Do I want to know more about grief and loss when you are a caregiver? If you are or know of a caregiver who needs help moving through the stages of