I was only 8 when I began working as an undercover security guard at estate sales. Among the dusty trinkets and used shampoo bottles, I learned a lot about human nature.

I was devastated when I lost my dream job as a mortician. But I found a new sense of purpose guiding pet owners through the worst days of their lives.

I always thought my mother's spiritual seeking was silly. So I almost couldn't believe it when a wacky new age community helped me cope with her death.

As our father slowly succumbed to ALS, we squabbled over which details to include in his farewell. And that’s when we realized we were talking like he was already gone.

As a doctor, Dad was very specific in his wishes for end-of-life care. I agreed wholeheartedly…back when it was purely theoretical.

More Americans are dying behind bars than ever before. At one correctional facility, volunteer death-doulas offer care and comfort to their fellow prisoners.

Time never moved slower than when my father was dying. But finally losing him made me start living like there’s no tomorrow.

The man who operated New York State’s “Old Sparky” was calm, collected and always professional. No one knew that every flick of the switch was tearing him apart.

Here’s what happens when a group of merrily macabre New Zealanders decides to go out in style.