I work directly with hospice programs and palliative care units. Team workers, familiar with my work, refer those they believe would be interested or would benefit from having their stories transcribed and shared. In general, the entire process takes approximately one week, although adjustments are made depending on urgency.
An initial appointment is scheduled, where I introduce myself and the service I offer. If they are interested, we set a day and time for our meeting. Although I am asking questions, the dialogue exchanged is much more of a conversation than an interview. It is recorded to allow for natural flow.* On average, meetings last approximately 90 minutes but this can change from person to person.
While transcribing the recordings, I stay true to their own words. Rather than create a ‘literary masterpiece’, the book retains each individual’s unique voice. One that friends and family recognize and often remark, “Yes, that’s exactly how he/she always spoke. Typical!”
A second meeting is scheduled, where I read their stories aloud for them to hear. This is always a special moment for the both of us, in which the full power and magic of palligraphy unfolds. At this time they may have additional information they’d like to share, or at times remove items they’ve elected not to share. During this meeting we discuss the cover page which may be photos or art they love, along with how many copies they’d like printed.
For our final meeting, I present them with the completed books. Some choose to share them with others while still alive, while others have them distributed after their death.
*Once complete, audio files are deleted in order to protect privacy and personal date.
