ABSTRACT
In some ways, the technical knowledge and skills to provide end-of-life care to those with a terminal illness is the easy part. Loss is inherent to healthcare, and most certainly to rehabilitation. Whether that be to recover from an accident, injury, or acute illness, or live well with a developmental or chronic condition, therapy or activity is beneficial. Life-threatening conditions tend to be more complex, by their nature. Suffering is more of an existential issue, of not having what one needs or wants, or having an undeniably difficult experience. Experiencing pain and the associated angst or desire to be rid of it, magnifies the pain and evokes suffering. Working with individuals facing death demands that we examine ourselves and our souls. Sitting with someone who is facing the end of his or her life is often akin to sitting in front of a mirror.
