We never truly know when we will take our last breath. Sometimes it happens suddenly, leaving those around us in shock, while other times, it’s a journey we see coming. Regardless of the circumstances, there is one thing we can do to ease the days following our departure: plan ahead by gathering and preserving our important information and cherished memories.

Preparing for the inevitable

Many of us have already taken steps like writing a will or deciding how our possessions should be distributed. Some of you will even have outlined the type of funeral service you want. Yet, one crucial element is often overlooked - the words that will be spoken about us. These words, whether shared in a eulogy or recalled in conversations, hold immense value for our loved ones. They encapsulate who we were, our experiences, and the essence of our lives.

That’s where Memory Gathering Sessions come in. These sessions provide an opportunity to record your stories, values, and milestones, creating a treasure trove of memories for your family and friends to cherish long after you’re gone.

Who benefits from a Memory Gathering Session?

My Memory Gathering Sessions have become increasingly popular among a diverse range of people. Adult children often book sessions for their parents to ensure family stories and histories are preserved. People in high-risk professions and those facing incurable illnesses also find comfort in leaving behind a legacy of memories for their loved ones.

What to expect in a session

Each Memory Gathering Session lasts approximately two hours, starting with a questionnaire to record factual details such as important dates, names, and places. Once this foundation is set, we delve into memories and stories. These conversations are fluid and often spark tangents that uncover even more cherished moments. Before you know it, two hours have flown by, and I have pages of notes capturing your life’s essence.

After the session, I organise the notes into a coherent structure. You have several options for how the information is presented:

• Electronic file: Keep your memories saved digitally for future reference.

• Chronological order: Have your stories organised in the sequence of your life.

• Eulogy draft: Create a ready-to-use eulogy that can be updated annually or at a more appropriate time.

The gift of prepared memories

When a loved one passes, the grief can be overwhelming. Having pre-recorded memories and stories can provide immense comfort to your family, helping them recall the things you held dear. It alleviates the guilt of not knowing certain details, like where you got married or where you lived as a child, and instead allows them to focus on celebrating your life.

A recent session with a 78-year-old woman highlighted just how enjoyable the process can be. She was surprised by how much fun she had sharing her stories. Her family joined in, laughing and reminiscing as one story led to another. The session became a joyous occasion, filled with connection and love.

How to get started

Memory Gathering Sessions can take place face-to-face whenever possible, but they can also be conducted online for convenience. Interested in booking a session? Just send me an email or give me a call, and we can check availability.

Taking the time to preserve your memories is not just a gift to yourself but a lasting legacy for your family. It’s a way to ensure your stories and values live on, offering comfort, connection, and joy to those you leave behind.