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In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli explores the emotional and financial toll of denied medical claims. Joined by founder and patient advocate Holden Karau, creator of Fight Health Insurance, they unpack the broken insurance system and how one AI-powered tool is helping people push back. From appeal letters to patient assistance programs, this episode offers clear, empowering steps for those facing healthcare denials, because no one should have to fight alone.

Links/Resources

• Guest: Fight Health Insurance – https://fighthealthinsurance.com
• Host: Traci Arieli's Website – https://www.comfortingclosure.com

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In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli explores the true meaning of a good death, and why it begins with how we choose to live. Joined by teacher, speaker, and author Chris Palmer, they unpack what it means to live with intention, plan ahead with compassion, and face death as a part of life rather than a medical failure.

Chris shares deeply personal stories and lessons from his book Achieving a Good Death: A Practical Guide to the End of Life, reflecting on fear, autonomy, quality of life, and how to make end-of-life care more humane and empowering.

Key takeaways include:

• Why intentional living leads to a more peaceful death
• How to approach advanced directives, even if you're scared
• Practical tools for having difficult conversations with loved ones
• How medical culture can hinder, rather than help, end-of-life care
• The importance of creating a personal mission statement for life and legacy

Whether you work in aging care, are planning ahead for yourself or a loved one, or are simply curious about what it means to die well- this episode offers powerful, grounded, and compassionate information.

Links/Resources

• Guest: Chris Palmer’s Website - https://www.chrispalmeronline.com/death-dying
• Host: Traci Arieli’s Website - https://www.comfortingclosure.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: Achieving a Good Death: A Practical Guide to the End of Life by Chris Palmer
• Compassion & Choices Dementia Values Tool – https://www.compassionandchoices.org
• Final Exit Network – https://www.finalexitnetwork.org
• AARP Advance Directive Links – https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes. Help us normalize these vital conversations and bring more comfort, clarity, and closure to end-of-life planning.

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In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli explores the complexities of senior living decisions with Angie Graham, Division President of Our House Senior Living. Together, they break down what “good care” really looks like, and how families can distinguish between nurturing communities and places that fall short.

Angie shares her personal story of navigating memory care for her father, insights into caregiver burnout, and why culture and communication are just as important as the building itself. You’ll learn what questions to ask on facility tours, how to read between the lines, and how to prepare emotionally for this deeply personal transition.

Whether you're supporting an aging parent or planning for yourself, this episode offers practical tools and guidance to help you make informed, compassionate choices.

Key Takeaways:

• What defines high-quality senior living
• How to spot red flags during facility visits
• Common misconceptions about assisted and memory care
• Ways to support caregivers and avoid burnout
• The emotional dynamics of transitioning into senior living

This conversation aims to normalize these often-difficult discussions, & empower families.

Links/Resources

• Guest: Our House Senior Living – https://www.ourhousesl.com
• Host: Traci Arieli’s Website – https://www.comfortingclosure.com

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes! Help us spread awareness and compassion around aging, dying, and grief.