Deathwalker reveals why planning your death matters

ZENITH Virago has helped thousands of dying people and their families navigate the end of life over the past two decades.

The Brunswick Heads-based “deathwalker”, who founded the Natural Death Care Centre in 2000, said most people remain unprepared for death.

“Some people have an attitude that if they talk about it it’s going to happen to them, but we can talk about winning Lotto and it doesn’t mean you are going to win it,” she said.

Virago said death can come at any time and that it is important to be prepared.

“A lot of people think it’s not going to happen to them; they’re going to get old, get sick and have time, but we all know people who have died young and unexpectedly,” she said.

While people once turned to clergy for support at the end of life, Virago said that is less common today.

“A lot of people don’t have that faith anymore so they’re looking for someone who’s familiar with the experience who can come in and support them and help them and their families understand what happens, including who to contact and what to do with their body,” she said.

Virago will speak at the upcoming Let’s Talk: End of Life Planning event at the Byron Community Centre.

The event is the fifth in the Let’s Talk series, organised by Sabine Muschter in collaboration with the Byron Community Centre and HeyDay Supports.

Virago will explain key legal and practical planning in clear, accessible terms, including Advance Health Directives, Enduring Guardianship, Power of Attorney and wills, and why they are essential for everyone aged over 18.

“In the distress of a sudden death there can often be a dispute over who that person belongs to – do they belong to their partner of six to 12 months or to their family?” she said. “When you make a will you appoint someone to make those decisions.”

She will also help people understand their options at this stage of life, including a brief overview of Voluntary Assisted Dying, so they can make informed decisions at the right time.

Sue McGuigan from NSW Health will also guide attendees through My Aged Care, Support at Home and end-of-life pathways, helping people understand how to access services when they are needed. HeyDay Supports CEO Peter Devine will share insights into the aged care journey and how to find local support as care needs change.

Following the discussion, attendees can connect with palliative care providers and local services at information tables.

Let’s Talk: End of Life Planning is at Byron Community Centre from 6pm on March 17.

To register, visit byroncentre.com.au