In this episode we have the great honour and privilege of speaking with Kathryn Rhoden. You will remember our soulful conversation with her husband Chris Rhoden in the previous podcast episode: What Does It Mean To Live A Meaningful Life (S3E16).

Kathryn joins us to speak about her life and experiences since Chris’ death on April 25th, 2025. With grace and genuine humanity Kathryn speaks candidly about her grief, the ups and downs, the love and loneliness that have been constant companions on her grief journey.

We are positive that if you too have lost a beloved partner this conversation will connect on many levels. If you have never lost a partner you will gain valuable insight into how you can support someone who has. We are saddened by the circumstances that have led us to have this conversation but we are deeply grateful to Kathryn and her willingness to share her love for Chris and her experiences since his loss.

Have feedback about the podcast? Have an idea for a future episode? Get in touch with us: whatnow@hospicepeterborough.org

What if a tattoo could carry more than a memory — what if it held a piece of someone you loved? In this episode, we sit down with artist Kerri Parnell, who’s redefining the meaning of memorial art through her deeply personal cremation tattoos.

These aren’t your average tattoos. Kerri blends a trace of a loved one’s ashes into the ink — creating designs that are both beautiful and intimate. But how did she start doing this? What does it mean for those who choose to carry their loved one in this way? And what are the emotions, ethics, and stories behind this growing practice?

Join us as we explore the art, the science, and the soul of remembrance through ink — and discover why people around the world are turning to Kerri to help them keep their connections alive, one tattoo at a time.

You can find more information about Kerri Parnell's work below:

@kerriparnell.art

@cremation_tattoos

Website: www.cremationtattoos.com

Have feedback about the podcast? Have an idea for a future episode? Get in touch with us: whatnow@hospicepeterborough.org

Red and Julie are delighted to welcome colleagues and friends (and past What now? guests) Dr. John Beamish and Dr. Kaetlen Wilson. The foursome gathered for a robust conversation about some of the unique aspects of grief with a MAiD (medical assistance in dying) death. They discuss how MAiD can be disenfranchised grief: grief that is not recognized or supported in a culturally normative manner.

They also delve into how family dynamics, secrecy, contrasting emotional responses, and the actual provision of MAiD can manifest distinct grief experiences. The group brings their many years of experience supporting families through MAiD, both prior to death and during the grieving journey. As MAiD becomes more commonplace in our Canadian context, this episode will be enlightening and supportive for all.

Have feedback about the podcast? Have an idea for a future episode? Get in touch with us: whatnow@hospicepeterborough.org