Issue 1 2015

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2015 Vol.15 No 1

Muldoon Funeral Supplies 5 White Lough Road, Aughnacloy, Co. Tyrone Bt69 6es

MANUFACTURERS OF QUALITY CASKETS & COFFINS

Tel: 028 8555 7833 or 086 8317361 or 07764 533907

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

New Funeral Home for Tallow ...................................4

Michael takes the chain.............................................. 19

Contents

Michael new IAFD President...................................34

Editorial and Advertising contacts: Graham Brown | Ruth McQuillan Vikki Crangle | Paula Hanna Tel: (028) 3835 5060 (048) from ROI Funeral Times is owned and published by: InHouse Publications, 1 Annagh Drive, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF email: sales@funeraltimes.com

Aidan Walsh opens new Funeral Home................. 4 Muldoons celebrate 10 years in business...............14 BIE News................................................................. 18 Award for funeral website......................................26 The indestructible Print-A-Plate...........................30 IAFD News..............................................................34 Call for charity support...........................................39 SAIF News...............................................................40 Padraic Cawley ponders the choice of ceremony.48 NAFD News............................................................. 53 Mattie Lennon isn’t sure whether he is ready to live to be 1000.................................. 59 PEAI News...............................................................63 Who is a Civil Funeral suitable for?

Mary Elizabeth Dillon wonders............................. 65 Kick it up a notch by Jack Adams.........................68 You're invited - Funeral Times Trade Show......... 72 Dr Bill Webster on being SAD............................... 74 Safety message from Dodge................................... 77 Classifieds................................................................ 78

Disclaimer: Readers are urged to support the magazine’s advertisers, but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Opinions expressed in this magazine by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed for inclusion in this magazine but no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from the use of published articles. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and photographs for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage however caused.

FuneralTimes | 3

Aidan Walsh and Sons unveil their new Funeral Home T

he President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors, Michael Crowley, accompanied by his wife Patricia and PastPresident Henry Black, were in attendance at the official opening of the new funeral home in Tallow, Co. Waterford for Aidan Walsh and Sons on 4th December, 2014. It proved to be a tremendous gathering of friends and colleagues and those who have been associated with the funeral business in Tallow over the years.

On the evening, Berry Walsh Funeral Director, mother of Aidan, along with Billy O’Donoghue, a retired funeral director who worked for many years with Walsh’s, were asked to cut a ribbon to mark the achievement. Aiden paid tribute to their expertise and professionalism and to the compassion and understanding they showed

to the community over the years.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered were the late Norman Walsh who died in 1978, father of Aidan and also the late Sean Mason Funeral Director who died in 2000.

On the passing of Norman, Sean helped and supported Berry and the immediate family to continue the business through the late 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Berry and Norman passed on the tradition of care and respect for the dead and bereaved to the team who today work to uphold their reputation for conducting funerals in a dignified manner.

On behalf of the Tallow community, Tom Doyle Funeral Director acknowledged the achievement of establishing a purpose built funeral home and the huge effort to get it to completion. The reaction locally is one of delight to have such a facility to offer to the

Entrance lobby

Reposing room

4 | FuneralTimes

community. Other speakers on the evening were I.A.F.D. President Michael Crowley, I.A.F.D. Past-President Henry Black, Martin Reddy Funeral Director and Frank Murphy, manager of the Island Crematorium (Cork), all of whom offered their best wishes for future success.

The 1961 Austin A55 hearse in which Norman Walsh and Sean Mason conducted funerals has been fully restored and is pictured outside the new funeral home.

The funeral home is the first in the town of Tallow and is finished to the highest of standards. It comprises an entrance lobby, reposing room, family room, coffin display room, office, toilets, kitchen and store room. The home has been finished in a contemporary style and stands on a 3/4 acre site with car parking for 75 cars. It is fully up to date to meet modern needs, with oil fired heating and air conditioning units to ensure comfort and an open gas fire with marble surround to add a homely touch.

The funeral home owners Marie and Aidan Walsh offer this funeral home to any family who wish to repose their lovedone in a homely, comfortable atmosphere, assuring peace of mind and consolation to the bereaved. Aidan Walsh & Sons Funeral Directors are a long established business dating back to the early 1850’s as a merchandising and hardware firm developing into undertaking in its fifth generation. Today the firm is run by Aidan and Marie, supported by a dedicated team

Cutting the ribbon (L-R) Tom Doyle, Berry Walsh, Marie Walsh, Billy O’Donoghue, Martin Reddy and Aidan Walsh We would like to kindly acknowledge the support of all our family, staff, friends and colleagues. Our appreciation to I.A.F.D. President Michael & Patricia Crowley, Past-President I.A.F.D. Henry Black, also to the Sheehan, Doyle, Cunningham and O’Brien families who have been providing funeral services in Tallow for generations and have given us great support in providing this facility.

We look forward to working with them in the future and once again to Funeral Times for providing such information to our profession.

who aim to provide the best possible service.

Over the years, expansion has seen the firm grow, now providing a funeral service in west Waterford and east Cork. “As we

Everyone attending the open day FuneralTimes | 5

Our team (L-R) - Conor Morrissey, Tom Doyle, Tommy Cahill, Nicola Morrissey, Aidan Walsh, Marie Walsh, Berry Walsh, Martin Reddy, Darren Mason and Dinny Cunningham expanded we offered a full funeral service to all areas including an embalming service, repatriations, private ambulance nationwide and also developed a monumental business”, said Aidan, “The combination of these businesses has given us the opportunity to operate a full time funeral firm which is continuing to grow and is supported by funeral firms throughout Waterford, Cork and Tipperary.”

Aidan & Marie Walsh

Members of the following: Irish Association of Funeral Directors The British Institute of Embalmers Aidan Walsh IAFD, MBIE is a qualified registered embalmer, Chairman Irish Division BIE 2013-2014.

Marie Walsh IAFD, CFP holds Certificate in Funeral Practice.

The family room

Pictured from left to right; Aidan Walsh, Marie Walsh, Nora McMahon and Ann Mason at the official opening of the Walsh Funeral Home in Tallow.

Nora and Ann are daughter and wife of the late Sean Mason Funeral Director, who worked for Walsh’s and was a driver of the 1961 Austin A55 Hearse included in the picture 6 | FuneralTimes

Left to right Henry Black (Past President of IAFD), Marie Walsh, Aidan Walsh, Billy O’Donoghue, Berry Walsh, Michael Crowley (President of IAFD) and Noel Mason

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Antony Oosthuizen of Hydes of Midleton with his new hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines

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Modern business with traditional values

S

. Sheals & Son is a long established coffin business operating from Co. Down which, under the management of Ryan Sheals, has promoted a new identity.

Establishing a business model capable of servicing demand coming from all 32 Irish counties, as well as throughout and UK and beyond, is a challenge for any enterprise. Add in a need to remain faithful to the firms existing reputation built on quality, reliability and traditional values, whilst incorporating a fresh emphasis on operational efficiency, modernity, and use of cutting edge technology and it is clear that Ryan’s rebranding of S. Sheals and Son was no easy task. Ryan himself comes from a marketing background having worked for a number of years as global marketing manager for an international mechanical engineering company.

Ryan helped design a modern website with all the functionality which people have come to expect. “The site just happens to sell

coffins”, says Ryan, “It uses ‘best practice’ which can be applied to any product…Our trade is seen as very traditional and old fashioned, and we felt it was important that the new branding and web site should be more modern… Our focus was always on having a site which helped funeral directors to work with their bereaved families to choose the ideal coffin. Having the site ipad/ iphone optimized for example helps the funeral director to present the options in a professional manner.”

Ryan has recently been joined in the firm by his brother Chris and the brothers agree that building a brand is about more than a website. They have launched a high quality brochure, designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, “We recognize that most customers will use the brochure to give a representation of the quality and style of coffins and then choose the specific model from the website which can be regularly updated to carry almost our entire range”.

FuneralTimes | 9

It’s Showtime Again!

N

FE 2015 is now only a few months away and both halls are fast becoming full with companies showing an incredible range of products and services for the funeral industry.

The exhibition takes place at Stoneleigh Park Warwickshire from 12 – 14 June. NFE is the major funeral exhibition in the UK and is rated as one of the most important events of its kind worldwide. Make sure you reserve at least one day to visit, and if you’ve got young children, bring them along on Sunday for a Medieval themed family day out. The organisers will be keeping you up to date with articles in the trade press and you can visit the website where they post regular articles on exhibitors as well as information on features and events.

Don’t forget to register

In previous years, regular visitors have received badges in the post a couple of weeks before the show but this always causes some problems. There are often changes to the information during the two years between exhibitions and a lot of badges just get thrown away. People can move up in the company or move on or you have new staff who need to visit. For the 2015 show the organisers have introduced a new system which is entirely web based but you’ll need to register online even if you visited the last show. It only takes a few minutes to enter

the name of everyone who intends to visit and you’ll get an information pack emailed back to you close to the exhibition with e-passes which will be scanned when you arrive. If you’ve got a smart phone you won’t even need to print off anything. It’s a much simpler, cost effective way of getting you into the exhibition as quickly as possible. Visit the website www.nationalfuneralexhibition. co.uk to register and please make sure you give the correct email address.

If you don’t pre-register, you will still be able to register when you arrive at the show, but just a few minutes online could save you a lot of time on the day.

If you’re thinking of exhibiting at the show there’s still some spaces available. Our ‘Introduction Area’ is the ideal place to start, with small compact prebuilt stands for first time exhibitors. If you want to stay over for a night or two, you can book discounted accommodation directly through the website.

NFE looks forward to welcoming Irish friends to Britain’s National Funeral Exhibition If you need further information phone +44 (0) 1926 815597 or email david_hyde@btconnect.com

FuneralTimes | 13

Muldoons celebrate 10 years in business This year marks the tenth anniversary for coffin manufacturers, Muldoons of Aughnacloy, and the county Tyrone business wants to include all funeral directors in their celebrations.

T

o mark the milestone, sales manager Mick Teague is introducing a number of special offers. “We appreciate that our customers have played a major role in helping us reach the landmark of 10 years in business”, said Mick, “And therefore we are introducing a number of special offers as a thank-you. We know we wouldn’t be in business without them and very much want to make this year an occasion when we give something back to the people in the industry who have helped us over the years”.

Muldoons have built their business on a number of simple principles revolving around quality, value and service. From a small operation started by undertaker Dominic Muldoon just outside the town of Aughnacloy, they have grown year after year and are now supplying a large number of funeral directors in all four provinces of Ireland.

“Quality comes first”, says Mick, “No funeral director wants a cheaper product which lets them down on the day. Value comes next, and Muldoons understand that it is important for funeral directors to buy coffins as competitively as possible. Service means delivering what the funeral director ordered when and where he needs it, and if that means a next day delivery, so be it”.

These principles have seen the firm develop a loyal group of customers

14 | FuneralTimes

who have grown each year and appreciate dealing with a company who understand their needs. “We have learnt over the years how important it is to meet the needs of every customer”, commented Mick, “we understand the importance of carrying a stock of various sizes of coffins, small, standard, outsize and oversize. You only have to turn on your television to be reminded how obese we have become and obviously it is now important for undertakers to stock oversize/outsize coffins.

We also make Condolence Book Stands, Grave Markers large and small, and take pride in providing quality Irish made products to the funeral industry.”

The helpful sales team at Muldoons are always pleased to discuss the special 10 year anniversary offers with any funeral director. Give Mick and his team a call on T:086 8317361 or 07764 533907 or email: dominicmuldoon@ btinternet.com

A selection of coffins that Muldoons have to offer

FuneralTimes | 15

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BIE News T

he Irish Division held its AGM meeting at Osprey Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare on Sunday 18th January 2015.

The new division officers and representatives were appointed and following this the first quarterly meeting was opened. Mr John Hawe takes over as Chairperson from Aidan Walsh and we wish John the very best in his two year term, a roll which John is truly worthy of.

Presentation of Certificate was made to Aidan Townley by John Hawe MBIE Chairperson who wished Aidan all the very best success in his career.

Ann Shepherd presented the Sheila Dix Perpetual Cup to Aidan Townley, student from the Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialists School Of Embalming, who received the highest mark in his practical exam. Ann also presented last years winner Pamela Murphy with a replica cup. Congratulations to both on this great achievement This year marks the second Funeral Times Trade Show at the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin on the 29th and 30th September.

We hope to hold a joint meeting with the North of Ireland division to promote the work of both divisions and to hold

educational sessions which will be open to members of both divisions.

We wish Graham Brown, publisher of Funeral Times and all his team at the Funeral Times every success on this upcoming event. We fully support this excellent Trade Show and will keep members up to date on the schedule.

Barbara Fowley, secretary, was thanked for her work throughout the year by Chairperson John Hawe and appreciation was shown by all the members in attendance.

Once again the meeting was most enjoyable with many views shared and a great input by all who attended. We encourage all members to attend our next meeting.

I would like to take opportunity to congratulate Michael Crowley, Ballincollig Co. Cork on his appointment as President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors.

And finally I thank the Funeral Times team, Graham, Ruth, Vikki and Paula for their guidance, support and kindness which was greatly appreciated.

Aidan Walsh

Note date for calendar Conference and Annual General Meeting for BIE is to be held in Edinburgh on the weekend of 24th and 26th April 2015.

18 | FuneralTimes

Mark Johnson receiving his BIE certificate from Hans Clyde at N.I. Division AGM

Michael McKiernan receives the Chain of Office from Billy Doggart and Marshall Lindsay

Michael McKiernan presents Hans Clyde with the outgoing Chairman's BIE Brooch at AGM

Hans Clyde congratulates Michael McKiernan on receiving the Chain of Office FuneralTimes | 19

Margaret completes acclaimed seminars in USA M

argaret Davis received special recognition from Mr Vernie R. Fountain (Founder and Instructor of Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming skills) on her recent completion of 140 hours of Specialist Embalming Training, held at their Training Facility in Springfield, Missouri, USA. This specialist training aims to advance the skill level of Embalmers in areas of General and Specialist Embalming and Post Mortem Reconstruction.

Fountain National Academy's world headquarters is based in Springfield, Missouri, USA. with representatives in Ireland and Australia. Mr Fountain is internationally recognised for his specialist embalming expertise.

Among the seminars Margaret completed in the United States, were: Practical Embalming Skills, Soft Tissue Injuries, Waxing and

20 | FuneralTimes

Airbrush Cosmetics Seminars (in 2011) and Advanced Post Mortem Reconstructive Surgery Seminars (in 2014).

A Professional Embalmer is often called upon to care for a loved one who has facial disfigurement secondary to a lengthy illness, an accident or other tragic circumstance.

Specialist techniques are sometimes necessary to achieve an acceptable appearance to enable the family to view their loved one if they desire. Dedicated Professional Embalmers understand that the viewing and visitation of a loved one and the opportunity to personally say "Goodbye" is an important and powerful psychological benefit in the bereavement process.

Margaret's career in Funeral Service commenced after 20 years of service in the Nursing Profession as a Registered General Nurse. It was during this time her interest in

Funeral Service and Embalming was generated following a conversation with an Embalmer who had reconstructed some of the most disfiguring facial injuries sustained during the worst troubles in Northern Ireland. She pursued her much desired career in 2009.

Margaret regards her years of Nursing Service as invaluable and instrumental in fulfilling the practical and psychological needs of those she is called to serve. Margaret feels privileged to have been availed of the opportunity to attend and complete such prestigious training and describes her learning as an immense support in assisting her Continued Professional Development in Funeral Service and most importantly, her personal endeavour to offer families the highest possible standards of care

and if they desire, a specialist service in making the seemingly impossible, perhaps a possibility and the hope of bringing some comfort at their time of need.

Margaret was delighted to receive her Certificate of Achievement at Fountain National Academy's Training Facility in Springfield, Missouri, and it includes the following statement: "Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills truly respect and admire Margaret for her untiring professional dedication to the Profession of Embalming and Post Mortem Reconstruction Surgery and her steadfast commitment towards improving her technical skills to enable her to better serve the victims of trauma and their families."

Michael elected as Chairman for Northern Ireland Division

T

he AGM and 1st Quarterly Meeting of the BIE Northern Ireland Division was held on Wednesday 14th January 2015 at Ravenhill Funeral Services, Belfast. There was a good attendance of Members and Students, including Fellow Member Mr Billy Doggart.

Michael Og-McKiernan was delighted to be elected as the new Chairman of the N.I. Division. Outgoing Chairman Hans Clyde expressed his thanks and appreciation for the level of support he had received from the Membership throughout the year and his good wishes to Michael on his new role as Chairman. The Chain of Office was presented to Michael by Hans Clyde and Billy Doggart. Lawrence O'Neill was elected as Vice-Chairman.

In his opening remarks as Chairman for the ensuing year, Michael expressed his sincere thanks to Members for availing him of the opportunity to undertake such a privileged role within the Division and also delivered thanks to Hans Clyde for all his hard work and encouraging words.

Election of Officers (National and Divisional level) was undertaken. A BIE Certificate was presented to Mark Johnson (Banbridge). The Division wish Mark well for his future Embalming Career.

A minutes silence was taken in respect of Mrs Bullick (Mother of Ronnie Bullick MBIE). The Division wish to express their sincere sympathies to the Bullick family at this time.

Dates and venues for 2015/16 were confirmed at the meeting. The Educational Programme for 2015 was also discussed. It is planned to have a Joint Education Day with the Irish Division. Details will follow at a later date. A report on National Council Matters and 2014 Joint Annual Dinner was delivered by Marshall Lindsay. Various other matters were discussed with good response from Members.

A generous supper was provided by Ravenhill Funeral Services. The Division express their sincere thanks to all at Ravenhill for the use of their premises and their hospitality on this occasion.

FuneralTimes | 21

BIE News

Eugene & Andrew from Shepherds Mortuary Supplies

William from CPL funeral supplies demonstrating new products

Glyn Tallon & Nora Murphy of Tallon Mortuary Specialists

John Hawe MBIE, Glyn Tallon MBIE and Aidan Walsh MBIE

Aidan Townley receives the Sheila Dix Cup from Anne Shepherd

Pamela Murphy 2014 winner of the Sheila Dix Cup receives her replica from Ann Shepherd

22 | FuneralTimes

IAFDBIE News News

Ann, Aidan and Glyn Tallon

Outgoing Chairman Aidan Walsh with new Chairman John Hawe, Secretary Barbara Fowley and Assistant Secretary Susan Moran

Aidan Townley with his wife Cheryl

Aidan Townley receives his certificate from new Chairman John Hawe with Glyn

New Chairman John Hawe

John Hawe, Aidan Townley, Cheryl Townley and Susan Moran FuneralTimes | 23

List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2015/2016 National President: Graeme Easton Scottish Division Imm. Past President: Scott Grigsby R.A. Adams Ltd 117 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA Mobile: 01268 743102 National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com Master Fellow: Ken Morgan FBIE “Evergreens”, 36 Coley Road, Little Haywood, Stafford ST18 0UW Home Tel: 01889 881223 Business Tel: 01902 878425 Mobile: 07970 831760 k.m.morgan@virgin.net Student Liaison Officer: Timothy Cain MBIE Hillcrest, 38 Main Street, Ashby de la Launde LN4 3JG Home Tel: 01526 321396 jackie@lymn.co.uk 24 | FuneralTimes

Irish Division Chairperson and 1st National Council Representative: Mr John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co. Cork Home Tel: 00353 6389280 Mobile: 087 6390087 jmhawe@eircom.net

Northern Ireland Division Chairman Michael Og McKiernan MBIE 51 Agivey Road, Kilrea, Co. Londonderry BT51 5UU Mobile: 07515 746541 Michael-ogmckiernan@hotmail.co.uk

2nd National Council Representative and Past Chairperson: Mr Aidan Walsh MBIE Cappoquin, Co. Waterford Mobile: 00353 87 2847831

Vice Chairman Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com

National Council Rep & Secretary: Ms Barbara Fowley MBIE Killakee, Rathfarnham Dublin 16 Mobile: 086 191 1022

Secretary Margaret Davis MBIE 4 Back Road, Cargycreevy, Lisburn BT27 6TL Mobile: 07841 100249 Margaretdavis4@me.com

Assistant Secretary: Susan Moran MBIE Alexandra Walk, Abbeylands, Clane, Ireland Mobile: 086 0619500

Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com

National Education Representative: Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialist 14 Academy Street Navan Co Meath Tel:046 9029134 Mobile: 086 826 8876

1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info

Treasurer: Mrs A O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co. Cork Telephone: 029 60142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com Vice Chairman: Mr Ger O’Sullivan MBIE Mobile: 086 021 5075

2nd National Council Representative Marshall Lindsay MBIE 4 Beechgrove, Kilrea, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT51 5RW Telephone: 028 29 540945 marshalllindsay4@gmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137 Phschoolofembalming@hotmail.com

H E N R Y PATO N + C o . L t d

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FuneralTimes | 25

Award for funeral website Funeral Times website www.funeraltimes.com, the internet portal for death notices, has won the prestigious Web App of the Year 2014 award at the recent annual DANI awards ceremony.

L

aunched in Spring ’14 www.funeraltimes.com lists death and condolence notices online and has enjoyed growing popularity over the past year.

The success of the website comes from two sources – support from Funeral Directors who upload notices directly and number of visits by the general public who browse the site for funeral details.

Nearly two hundred funeral directors have signed up to date and are uploading directly on a round-theclock basis. Many of them avail of the free service to simultaneously upload to their own site thus avoiding double workload. A unique feature of the site designed especially for FDs is the ability to create and send a newspaper notice which makes the website a one-stop publishing service.

Visitor numbers have grown substantially and so far over a hundred thousand have logged on at home and abroad. In addition to the funeral details, visitors can find directional maps to the service and committal locations. In cases where preliminary details are posted visitors can leave contact info to receive update alerts via email or text.

Irish Independent, under the brand www. iNotices.ie , uses the same software as the Funeral Times site. “This affords both sites the advantage of a shared database”, says Graham Brown, Publisher, Funeral Times. “It makes www.funeraltimes.com the premier website in providing online death notices across the island of Ireland”.

26 | FuneralTimes

Andrew McMullan and Darwin Stevenson Alan Fleming

Stephen and Anna Harley

"They're all noticing"

FuneralTimes | 27

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Memorial plaque swept across Irish Sea Gerard Quinn of Quinn’s Funerals Dundalk was made aware recently of something of a minor miracle, the kind of story that warms the heart and comforts those who need it, also a tribute to the durability of Print-A-Plate products.

A

ugust 2010 saw the tragic death of Stephen Toner, a young Dromiskin man who lost his life to the River Fane.

Gerard was asked to attach a cross to the bridge on behalf of the family and, adding a meaningful touch, fixed a custom memorial plaque to its center, courtesy of Danny Morning at Print-A-Plate.

Having stood testament to Stephen for two years, the memorial was removed and, although it is believed the cross was recovered, the plaque was nowhere to be found, assumed gone forever. In Gerard’s opinion the plaque was most likely tossed into the River Fane where it began its journey across the Irish Sea. After two years its journey home to those to whom it meant so much was about to begin, having journeyed from Louth to Portpatrick, a small coastal village in the South West of Scotland. Karen Thompson had been 30 | FuneralTimes

walking along the beach near her home when she came across the plaque washed up in the surf, still fully legible!

The sensitive nature of the situation renders Print-A-Plate unable to spread the word of their plaque’s miraculous durability to any great extent, however those in the know will doubtless be impressed by its quality.

In an act of goodwill and kindness, Karen posted the plaque to Dromiskin Post Office c/o Postmistress Briege Mulligan with the following note; ‘Dear Sirs, I found Stephen’s memorial plaque on the beach at Dunskey Golf Course, Port Patrick. Hope you may know the family and return it to them.

Thanks in advance, Karen.’ The plaque has been returned to the Toner family who are overjoyed and touched in equal measure by the kindness shown by Karen and her family, with whom they have been in touch.

New Nederman Prep Arms for Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming

T

allon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming has acquired two Prep Arm's Localised Exhaust Ventilation Systems (LEV) for their own use and for the training of their student embalmers. They capture noxious fumes at the source, contributing to a safe working environment. Some features include: Safety • Engineered for localised extraction of noxious vapors.

• Protects embalmer’s respiratory system and prevents fumes from entering the general airstream in the embalming room.

Manoeuverable • Chemically resistant arms rotate and swivel through 360 degrees and lock into place.

• Folds away when not in use.

Functional • Captures noxious fumes at the source.

• Lighted transparent hood prevents splatters or chemical bursts from reaching the embalmer’s face.

Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming LAUNCHING OUR TWO DAY WAXING AND COSMETIC COURSE Call for dates and further information

Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility.

For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you contact:

Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Mobile: 086 826 8876 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com / Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com FuneralTimes | 31

Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved one’s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn.

Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you.

If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients.

Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly.

We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.

For more information contact us or visit our website Tel: 01 825 4579 From NI: 00353 1 825 4579 info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie

Toyota Avensis makes the ideal removal vehicle W

estern Cars, an authorized Toyota centre in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, are receiving a lot of enquiries leading on to sales for new and used Toyota Avensis Tourer.

The Avensis has all the specification, needs and dimensions required for the purpose of a removal vehicle.

“We are finding mixed model sales as the vehicle comes in petrol and diesel derivatives with the option of manual or automatic”, says Patrick Mc Caffrey, Centre Principal of Western Cars, Enniskillen.

The Avensis comes with Dignity Glass as standard as well as the renowned Toyota 5 year warranty. The efficiency of the car

means that it benefits from a lower tax of £30 in Northern Ireland and €200 in the south.

Western Cars carry out business throughout Ireland, regularly supplying cars south of the border. “We carry out all the VRT paperwork”, says Patrick, “And we can assist with really keen rates for the Euro exchange to Sterling. Delivery can be arranged to the 32 counties”.

For further information, please contact: T 028 66324323 / 048 66324323 (ROI) or visit our website: www.westerncars.toyota. co.uk or email: dp@western-cars.toyota. co.uk

Western Cars Toyota Enniskillen

An Authorised Toyota Centre

TOYOTA AVENSIS

• Ideal as a removal car • Comes standard with Dignity Glass • 5 year Warranty from new • Low Tax £30 NI / €200 ROI

T: 028 66324323 / 048 66324323 (ROI) www.westerncars.toyota.co.uk Email:dp@western-cars.toyota.co.uk

FuneralTimes | 33

IAFD News Dear Members

I

t is both an honour and privilege to be President of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors for this year 2015. I am delighted to be able to serve the interests of our members and I am privileged to be working with an excellent and committed Board of Directors.

At our first Board meeting held on 11th December 2014 we established the position of Second Vice President following on from the amendments to the Memorandum and Articles of the Association at the AGM in Cork on 22nd November 2014. The Officers of the Board unanimously recommended John Foley for this position, which I might add he kindly accepted. Membership of committees was also established for the incoming year with the addition of both Dermot McCarthy and Mary O’Shea to the Membership and Excellence Committee.

Following on last year’s success with our regional meetings and in particular an open evening meeting in Killarney, we will this year have three regional meetings in Tullamore, Dundalk and Limerick. The meeting

34 | FuneralTimes

in Limerick will be an evening open/ regional meeting.

My plan for the year is that we continue to forge new links with the various organisations both at National and Local level and continue to build our relationship with them.

We are still in the process of

IAFD News finalising a document on best practice in relation to the removal of deceased from nursing homes and hospitals.

This is being done in conjunction with HIQA, Hospice Foundation, Nursing Homes Ireland, HSE, BIE and IAFD. This I see as an important step in forming some coordinated strategy involving all organisations in the care of the deceased.

Following on the recent EBOLA case which occurred in Scotland, we were contacted by the NI Health Service and the HSE. As a result the Association was in a position to send some relevant information regarding EBOLA to its members both North and South.

New Members: I would like to welcome Lynch Funeral Directors, Valentia Island, Co Kerry and Eugene O’Dwyer Funeral Director, Main Street, Virginia, Co. Cavan, to full membership of the Association.

The Association would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the family of the late Mr Val Lannigan, Dublin, who was a long serving member of the Association.

Finally I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

Yours sincerely

2014 Annual General Meeting

President Henry Black presents Joanne Cooney with Honorary Membership acknowledging her outstanding contribution to the IAFD. Joanne was surprised, honoured and humbled to receive the honour

Outgoing President Henry Black installs Michael Crowley as President of IAFD 2015 FuneralTimes | 35

IAFD News Michael Crowley (President) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork.

Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Henry Black (Immediate Past President) Henry Black Funeral Directors Springbank, Rushbrooke, Cobh Phone: 021 4811630 Mobile: 087 2544106 Gerard Clarke (First Vice President) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071 9130700 Mobile: 087 2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net John Foley (Hon. Treasurer and second Vice President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01 8555511 Mary Cunniffe (Hon. Secretary) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085 8010742, Ph: 014 907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Joanne Cooney (Education Committee - Chair) 4 Robert Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Ph: 051 421416 Mobile 087 8180676 Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com

Colman Finlay (Membership Officer) Tierney Street, Ardee, Co. Louth Ph: 041 6853603 Email: colman.finlay@finlaygrp.com Graham Gleasure (PRO) The Gleasure Funeral Home Matt Talbot Road, Tralee Ph; 066 7123079 fax; 066 7123193 Mobile: 086 2581443 Email: graham@gleasures.ie James Brown Funeral Services Northern Ireland Ltd. 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Email: jb@james-brown.info Colm Kieran Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan Mobile: 087 6218740 , Ph: 042 9667309 Email: colmkiernan@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork.

Ph: 029 56044 Email: dermot@mccarthy-auctioneer.com Mary O’Shea O’Shea’s Funeral Directors New Street, Killarney Ph: 064 6637123 Email: osheatim@eircom.net

www.iafd.ie 36 | FuneralTimes

Seamus Flynn and Son, Athlone, Co Westmeath with his hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines

Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299

FOR SALE INSIGNIA 3 DOOR HEARSE • Half leather • Alloys • Double deck etc.

• Excellent condition 13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, County Antrim BT44 8EF

Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **

www.fearghasquinn.com FuneralTimes | 37

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Support local research and help us win the fight against heart disease H

eart disease is the country’s single biggest killer and 50 years ago, 7 out of 10 people died if they suffered from a heart attack in Northern Ireland, but today 7 out of 10 people survive. This is due to British Heart Foundation (BHF) Northern Ireland’s pioneering research which has transformed the lives of thousands of local people living with heart and circulatory disease.

By encouraging people to fundraise and donate in memory to BHF Northern Ireland you’ll be helping to save lives.

Each year, heart disease devastates thousands of local families - like the Duncan’s from Londonderry. Suzanne Duncan lost her husband Andrew (November 2014), who died while waiting for a heart transplant.

At 39 years old Andrew tragically lost his 15 year battle against a lethal heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy.

Suzanne says: “Andrew was heavily involved with the charity through raising funds and awareness as he knew that funding research will make a difference for our children, Aimee and Robbie, who have both inherited the heart condition gene that took their father so young.

“Although it was sadly too late for Andrew, our fight still continues and this is why we are supporting BHF Northern Ireland in its fight for every heartbeat.”

It’s so simple to support BHF Northern

Suzanne with her husband Andrew Duncan before he lost his battle with heart disease

Ireland – by encouraging people to make a donation in lieu of flowers, giving gifts in memory or creating a tribute fund to a loved one who has passed away. These will help fund the vital research needed to save others.

For more information on how you can help visit lastinghope.bhf.org.uk or get in contact with Gary Wilson, Fundraising Volunteer Manager, BHF Northern Ireland on 028 686 33113 or email: ni@bhf.org.uk.

FuneralTimes | 39

SAIF news ... SAIF news ...

Annual general meeting T

he SAIF AGM and Banquet weekend is this year being held on March 21st 2015 at the Beaumont House Hotel, Old Windsor, Berkshire.

More details are on the SAIF website www.saif.org.uk, SAIFInsight or by contacting the Business Centre to reserve your place. Excellent entertainment has been booked promising a night to remember, so book now to avoid disappointment.

Beaumont House Hotel

SAIF becomes Dementia Friendly Last year SAIF were delighted to announce becoming Dementia Friendly in conjunction with Training2Care UK Ltd. the Virtual Dementia Tour (VDT) and that the Dementia Tour is available to SAIF members at a discounted fee.

With the Government highlighting the

need to invest more funds into research and care for sufferers of this debilitating illness, SAIF are pleased to be involved with such a worthy cause and have arranged for a speaker on the subject at every Regional Meeting this year.

SAIF Membership

L

ast year SAIF dealt with over 200 membership applications, it was really a year to be proud of with Independents realising the importance of belonging to a Trade Association specifically for Independents. If you are not a member of a Trade Association and are Independent, now is the time to consider joining SAIF, so please contact SAIF Business Centre for more information or an application form.

40 | FuneralTimes

Local Council Visits Have you had a visit from your local water board or Council? Two members have reported recent inspections. These were unannounced and one member needs to make alterations with the water inflow. It just goes to prove that inspections do happen and we can only advise members of the Girl Guides motto and ‘Be Prepared’.

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FuneralTimes | 43

Stock management comes to the Eulogica software T

he Eulogica software is continuously developing with small and large improvements. From 2015 you will likely see an accelerating speed of change. At Eulogica, we have hired several new computer programmers over the last few years. During 2014 many of them have been under training, or busy working on minor improvements and integrations for Eulogica 6. Hence the results of our increased investments have not been quite visible to everyone - but this is about to change.

As we turn a page and start on the year 2015, we feel Eulogica 6 has become a solid, mature and complete system suitable for all Funeral Directors. At the same time, this is the platform upon which we plan to build a lot of exciting new technology over the years to come.

Internally, we now have eight computer programmers who work on Eulogica development according to a rolling 2-year plan. Some keywords for new things to come over the next few years are - resource management system (to keep track of things like cars, rooms or staff ), management dashboard (to give leaders an instant overview of important indicators), new user interface (to make it faster and easier to use Eulogica), public API (allowing third parties to connect their systems), web connectivity (allowing Eulogica data to appear and be created via your web pages), mobile apps (allowing for the use of Eulogica on iOS as well as Android smartphones and tablets), and RDBMS connectivity (allowing for the use of market-leading databases like Oracle, MySQL or MS-SQL Server).

One of the first things to be delivered, however, is a new module for stock management â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also known as inventory management.

Inventory management is mostly about knowing and deciding about the quantity

44 | FuneralTimes

and location of stocked goods.

For a typical funeral director, this means keeping track of coffins first of all - but it may also apply to smaller hygienic items, for example. In many countries, urns and other products related to cremated remains will also make up a significant part of the stock.

A main objective of any inventory management system is to protect the regular course of business against the risk of running out of required materials. On the other hand, this needs to be balanced against a need to minimize the capital tied up in stock.

Many Eulogica users have a simple stock situation and may not feel they need more functionality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is all about coffins, which

are big and familiar and hence easy to track.

However, there are two categories of funeral director that are asking for more advanced functionality in Eulogica: Larger businesses with several storage facilities, and advanced users who think ahead and see benefits in automating as much as possible.

The first group is easy to understand. Once your coffins, urns or other items are spread across 3 buildings - or 30, perhaps with several deliveries per day - it makes sense to have information, at the touch of a button, about what is in stock or on its way, and to be able to generate with ease some overviews about what needs to be ordered next.

The second group is perhaps even more interesting: Many funeral directors, as they use Eulogica, discover more and more benefits arising from managing their business in an increasingly professional way.

This can happen regardless of the size of the business.

Fast and correct documentation delivered to staff, suppliers and customers is, for example, valuable to any size of funeral directing business. A diary or task list that

is always up to date can be similarly useful even for small businesses. During the decades that Eulogica have been in business, we have even seen a tendency that those companies that use more of the advanced features of Eulogica, tend to be those that grow and expand from small to bigger companies.

Do they succeed because they use software to achieve professionalism in every detail?

Or are there other reasons behind their growth as well as their software use? We leave that for you to ponder..!

In any case, we are now working on the Eulogica stock management module and expect to offer it to you next year. This will be available for the smallest of Eulogica users as well as for the bigger companies If you are interested or if you have particular requests when it comes to stock management, please make contact and we will be happy to discuss it further.

Telephone: 0845 3519 935 Facsimile: 0845 3519 936 Email:nbs@eulogica.com Eulogica Ltd., 1b Arundel Road, Chapeltown, Sheffield, S35 2RB

Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.

Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements All at very competitive prices Special requests catered for at shortest notice

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We have an extensive stock ready for delivery or collection including: • Circles of Life • Posies • Sprays • Hearts • Crosses • Cushions • Pillows • Gates of Heaven • Footballs and Jerseys • Posies with Candles • Lettering Wreaths Discounts apply on scale of your orders

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Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie FuneralTimes | 45

We are looking to acquire funeral businesses in Ireland Dignity would like to talk to you if you are thinking of selling your business.

Why choose Dignity?

1. We are funeral people - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all we do. We are obsessive about the standard of service we offer families we and 99% of our clients say that we met or exceeded their expectations.

2. You will deal directly with a main board director who has complete authority to agree all terms.

In other words you will be dealing principal to principal. The result is a quick and simple transaction.

3. We respect Irish funeral culture and traditions and since 2008 operate from a number of locations, including Belfast, Bangor, Newtownards, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey.

4. We have a proven track record of investing in what were previously independent businesses and securing the future of employees and former owners, many of whom stay with us in a consultancy or management role. The result is that local families continue to receive the highest standard of service for generations to come.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dignity has honoured every promise made to us when they bought Kirkwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.â&#x20AC;?

DAVID RICE

Area Manager and former manager of Kirkwood Funeral Directors, Belfast & Newtownards Please call Andrew Davies, Operations Director or Mike McCollum, Chief Executive. Between us we have over 50 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funeral experience and will be delighted to deal with you in the strictest OÂ&#x2018;Â?oYbÂ?Ob Ă&#x2030;Â&#x20AC;½}Â&#x2018;Ă&#x201A;½ 8Â?Ă&#x2039; Â&#x2018;FÂ&#x2021;Â&#x20AC;u8½Â&#x20AC;Â&#x2018;Â?¢

Contact Mike McCollum, Chief Executive or Andrew Davies Operations Director: Dignity plc, 4 King Edwards Court 3QVO -L_IZL[ ;Y]IZM ;]\\WV +WTLĂ&#x2026;MTL * )8 Email: mike.mccollum@dignityuk.co.uk | andrew.davies@dignityuk.co.uk <MTMXPWVM" | www.dignityfunerals.co.uk

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FuneralTimes | 47

Today’s funeral ceremony choices It used to be so easy! Religious ceremonies went straight to the minister and non-religious ceremonies went to the local humanist, if available in the area. Now there are multitudes of folk knocking on your door constantly saying that they are offering a new type of funeral ceremony for your clients!

H

ow much choice you offer is obviously your decision and affected by who is available in your area and your opinion on their work. You will also be trying to work out what sort of funeral will best suit the needs of the people in front of you at a time when they need every ounce of your help and advice that you can give.

If you select the wrong person for the family, or if the funeral ceremony isn’t as good as the family expect, this could reflect on your business. So it is crucial to offer the right choices.

When discussing Civil Funerals, delivered by members of The Institute of Civil Funerals, (please be aware that there are individuals that call themselves Civil Funeral Celebrants who are NOT members of the Institute), the following points may be useful:

How are Civil Funerals different from Humanist funerals?

The main difference is that Humanist funerals should not include religious references, hymns or prayers, whereas a Civil Funeral Celebrant will read a prayer or include hymns or religious music and religious references if required. This can reflect something of the ‘mix-and-match’ spirituality of those people who do not identify with a church yet do not regard themselves as atheists.

48 | FuneralTimes

Five things to consider when matching Celebrant to family: • Have you heard the delivery style of the Celebrant or can you speak to someone who has? (E.g. Crematorium staff ) • Does their personality suit the family?

• Will the person be flexible about the time and location of the meeting with the family to discuss the funeral?

• Will they provide a full copy of the text available beforehand for the family to check for any inaccuracies?

• Will they provide a full copy of the ceremony available for the family afterwards to keep?

It’s very easy to send a family in the wrong direction, if they ask for a non church service. Sometimes a family can differ in their requests, and what I have noticed over the last while, is where a family have a church service, and a civil committal at the crematorium or graveside. This can satisfy a family who may be divided on how best to celebrate their loved one's life. Where they are restricted to the structures of a religious service, they can express themselves more freely at a civil ceremony or committal.

Padraic Cawley MICF Head of The Institute of Civil Funerals Ireland

CIVIL FUNERAL CEREMONIES Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

Celebrating the life of the deceased, reflecting their personal beliefs, wishes, values and traditions.

Padraic Cawley, MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

087 267 6050 View my Profile on Linkedin

padraic@padraiccawley.ie www.padraiccawley.ie

Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) ! SMALL INDEPENDENT FAMILY RUN COMPANY OFFERING A FAST AND RELIABLE SERVICE HOURS A DAY

As part of our service to you, we can: s 2EPATRIATE THE DECEASED FROM THE 5+ s 0ROVIDE A COFlN AND INTERIOR s 0ROVIDE EMBALMING SERVICES

Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE -ANCHESTER 2OAD -ARSDEN (UDDERSlELD 7EST 9ORKSHIRE 5+ ($ %9 FuneralTimes | 49

Ryan Stevenson, son of Darwin, at the handover of their new Insignia Hearse from Louis Wilcox of Wilcox Limousines Ltd.

Stevensons of Ballymena introduce the first Traditional Insignia Hearse in to Northern Ireland

T

he family business was set up 114 years ago by Alex Stevenson and is now run by Darwin and his son Ryan, the fifth generation to care for the needs of the community in Ballymena, Co. Antrim.

This is the seventh hearse that Stevensons have bought from Wilcox Limousines since the 1980’s.

Ryan commented “Having had a series of Vauxhall’s from Wilcox we were

50 | FuneralTimes

pleased when the Traditional hearse was launched. We viewed the vehicle at Wilcox’s manufacturing facility near Wigan and were impressed with the space and the curved rear door/deck which really makes the hearse stand out from others on the market.”

Louis Wilcox would like to thank the Stevenson family for their continued business and wish them every success with their new hearse.

Wilcox team pass with flying colours

Technicians from Eagle Specialist Vehicles, Wilcox Limousines’ specialist Hearse and Limousine manufacturing workers, have graduated with distinctions from highly technical and advanced courses provided by Jaguar.

W

ilcox Limousines and Eagle’s unique partnership with Jaguar Cars enables them to advance their employees’ skill sets and knowledge through direct training with Jaguar.

The team returned to work triumphant after learning of their results from the 2-3 day training courses. Geraint Rogers who was booked on the Digital Communications and Control course said “It was such an honour to be trained by Jaguar, the best vehicle manufacturer in Britain. We’ve been left brimming with knowledge and eager to apply this in our day to day work.”

Eagle and Wilcox Limousines continually invest in staff training programmes, ensuring they are always as up to date as possible, especially important with the rapid development of new technology.

“It’s fantastic the level of support and

training we receive, it really helps in our confidence and therefore our standard of work”, said Dan Wilson who took the Electrical Diagnostics and Techniques course.

The training was as follows: Stephen McConville Advanced Level Computer Diagnostics Dan Wilson Electrical Diagnostics and Techniques Paul Ekersley Security Systems Geraint Rogers Digital Communications and Control Wilcox Limousines and Eagle Specialist Vehicles would like to congratulate the team on their excellent results and thank them for their hard work and enthusiasm.

FuneralTimes | 51

National Association of Funeral Directors Just another trade association?

Think again.

We are LISTENED TO The largest funeral sector trade association, representing almost 3,700 funeral homes 80% of UK funeral directors. Our size gives us a respected voice at the highest levels of Government.

We are INFLUENTIAL We campaign hard on issues that could affect the sector and are as focused on the needs of our 2,000 small, independent member firms as on those of our larger members.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re INDEPENDENT Independent of any single funding body or organisation, we work hard to balance the views and needs of all our members, irrespective of size.

We promote HIGH STANDARDS The NAFD Code of practice is client-facing and a guarantee of quality of service.

We are the VOICE of the profession We bring the funeral service industry together to speak with one voice in the media, to Government and to the general public, your clients.

The BEST benefits package in the industry, BY FAR Including ÂŁ5million professional indemnity cover for each member company; a suite of free business helplines and collective buying power, saving our members thousands of pounds every year.

We have an eye on THE FUTURE We keep members abreast of changes likely to affect their business, creating progressive partnerships which also open up opportunities for them.

We are the association for the funeral sector.

We care about our members, become one today.

If you would like to know more about how we can support your business or would like to join the NAFD, visit our website www.nafd.org.uk or call Su on

0121 711 1343 Ext 20 National Association of Funeral Directors The voice of the profession 618 Warwick Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 1AA Tel: 0121 711 1343 email: info@nafd.org.uk

Visit our award winning website at

www.nafd.org

NAFD News The NAFD and Cruse Bereavement Care take Social Fund campaign to Downing Street N

AFD Chief Executive Alan Slater and Debbie Kerslake, Chief Executive of Cruse Bereavement Care, have delivered a joint letter to No.10 Downing Street calling for the ‘other funeral expenses’ element of the Social Fund Funeral Payment to be index linked to inflation – a first step to fairness in tackling funeral poverty.

Over the last few months, the NAFD has been meeting politicians and other interested groups to seek support for the index link campaign. The joint letter, signed

by Alan Slater and Debbie Kerslake, is an important step forward – combining the voice of the funeral profession with the leading bereavement charity in the UK. The NAFD will continue to work with Cruse and other interested bereavement groups over the coming months to seek index linking, with the Budget on 18 March 2015 representing an important opportunity to secure this important step forward for bereaved families and the funeral profession.

Alan Slater and Debbie Kerslake outside 10 Downing Street

NAFD shortlisted for three prestigious awards!

The NAFD has been shortlisted for Best UK Trade Association, Best Newsletter (for Funeral Director Monthly) and Best Exhibition for the National Funeral Exhibition, at the inaugural Association Excellence Awards.

The Association Excellence Awards recognise individuals, teams and initiatives and highlight excellence in how associations operate and serve their members, focusing

on best practice in all areas of running a successful, responsible and sustainable association – serving members needs and delivering value to members.

Entries were reviewed by 25 judges who are all chief executives of leading associations, and the NAFD is up against tough competition including the British Dental Association, the Recruitment and FuneralTimes | 53

Employment Confederation, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, the Law Society of Scotland and the Institute of Water, amongst many others.

The awards are organised by the Global Conference Network (GCN) which has extensive experience and expertise in running industry-leading awards programmes. GCN awards are highly sought after because of the independent and rigorous judging process by industry practitioners and leaders – which means they showcase the very best, as judged by industry peers.

Alan Slater, NAFD Chief Executive Officer,

said: “I am delighted that our work both to provide industry-leading benefits for our members and to uphold and develop the standards and reputation of the whole funeral profession has been recognised in this way.

“I am particularly delighted with the nominations for Funeral Director Monthly and the National Funeral Exhibition. I have long believed that they are in a league of their own within the funeral sector, so it’s great to see them hold their own amongst the best in class across all trade associations.”

Celebrating success I

n late November, 34 graduates of the NAFD Diploma in Funeral Arranging & Administration gathered at Birmingham City University (BCU) with their families and friends to mark the occasion of successfully completing their studies and to celebrate their achievement.

In his speech during the event, NAFD Head of Examiners Keith Peacock commented; “In May 2010, BCU achieved the highest mark, an Ofsted grade 1 for the quality of training and the management and quality assurance of the training it provides for both its primary and secondary teacher training courses. It was this level of quality assurance that first drew the NAFD educationalists into a symbiotic relationship with the University. The NAFD benefits from the highest level of external endorsement to provide the most rounded and professional suite of awards within the funeral profession. The University has the opportunity to promote itself to a wider audience who might feel this to be the next step for higher education as a university under-graduate. Our aim is to send graduates back to the workplace having received the best training possible to enable them to be proficient and professional funeral directors.”

NAFD President, Paul Cuthell, also

54 | FuneralTimes

acknowledged in his address to attendees: “As I am sure each of you will agree, the funeral profession has changed greatly in the time that each of us has known it, let alone the time when our forefathers founded their businesses. This has meant that the role of the funeral director has also changed a great deal and, with that, so too have the expectations that are placed upon each of us. We each have different roles in the businesses within which we work but, together, we contribute towards the service that the family receives and it is only in the close way that we work together, each playing our own role, so that we can ensure the bereaved are served in the best possible way. I want to thank you all for the part that you play in ministering to the bereaved. For that is what we do as we come alongside them, providing a sense of direction and hope to them when they need us most.”

The end of 2014 also saw the graduation of eight funeral service employees who received their Foundation Degrees in Funeral Services at the University of Bath annual winter graduation ceremonies held at The Assembly Rooms, Bath on Tuesday 9 December. Graduates were honoured to be presented with their degrees by the Chancellor of the University, HRH Prince Edward the Earl of Wessex.

NFE 2015 is just round the corner T he National Funeral Exhibition 2015 (NFE) is now only a few months away and both halls are fast becoming full, with companies set to show an incredible range of products and services for the funeral industry.

The exhibition, which takes place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire on 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14 June, is featured on page 13.

For full details and a list of exhibitors please visit www. nationalfuneralexhibition.co.uk.

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Willie Doyle of the Flannery and Doyle, Funeral Homes, Wicklow town and Kilcoole, collects his new General Motors based hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines. Willieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new hearse boasts Irish type approval, a powerful petrol engine, right hand drive, full leather, award winning paintwork, slide underdeck, special LED lighting system, casket deck fittings, removable seats, folding cover boards, Sat-Nav, blue tooth, parking sensors and many other features. Fearghas wishes Willie and his family every success for the future

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Methuselah Foundation

By Mattie Lennon

he Undertaking business, “... will still remain valuable for another couple T of generations at least.” So David Gobel

told me. And now you are asking who is this David Gobel and what question did I put to him to elicit such an answer?

David Gobel, along with Aubrey de Grey, co-founded the Methuselah Foundation, a medical charity based in Springfield, Virginia, in 2003 in order to “shed light on the processes of ageing and find ways to extend healthy life.” De Grey says, “The first person to live to be 1,000 years old is certainly alive today… whether they realize it or not, barring accidents and suicide, most people now 40 years or younger can expect to live for centuries.” The Methuselah Foundation is a non-profit organisation and on September 16, 2006, Peter Thiel, co-founder and former CEO of PayPal, announced a pledge of $3.5 million to it, “to support scientific research into the alleviation and eventual reversal of the debilities caused by ageing.”

Of course many believe that humans shouldn’t live for centuries. anti-ageing crusaders frequently coming up against an increasingly influential alliance of bio conservatives who want to restrict research seeking to “unnaturally” prolong life. They oppose the idea of life extension and anti-ageing research on ethical, moral and ecological grounds.

Bioethicist Daniel Callahan of the Garrison, New York-based Hastings Centre, agrees: “There is no known social good coming from the conquest of death.” I can only answer with the line from the late Donal McCann’s poem, “A man would be better off not dead.” Whatever about opinions in farflung places, what do we think on this island? What Irish person would want to live to one thousand (I suppose you’ll say, “Someone who was aged nine hundred and ninety nine”!) I think we should put it to the Irish people; have a referendum on it. And if we don’t get the desired result? Ah, sure we can have another one.

Of course the question had been asked, “What would Methuselah himself think?” According to the

Aubrey de Grey and David Gobel co-founders of the Methuselah Foundation Hebrew Bible, Methuselah was Noah’s grandfather. He died, aged 969, seven days before his famous grandson set sail in the Ark. But, of course, you all know the story of the Great Flood or, as they say in Kerry, “a hoor of a shower.”

Wexford-born genius, Walter O‘Brien says, “If you’ve made enough money where you’re not worried about the rent or survival, you start asking yourself why you’re on this planet. Your point is to do the most good you can before you die – well I could do more good if I didn’t die.” I must say the man from Clonroche has a point. Michael Rose, a professor of evolutionary biology at the University of California, says, “I am working on immortality. Twenty years ago the idea of postponing ageing, let alone reversing it, was weird and off-the-wall. Today there are good reasons for thinking it is fundamentally possible.”

George Bernard Shaw said, “Death is neither natural or inevitable.” And that as human beings we were capable of extending our lifespan. He didn’t do too badly himself. He lived to 94.

I am well over forty and Messrs Gobel, de Grey and Tony Clarke, the local undertaker, all agree that I won’t make the thousand.

And while I have you; one of my favourite writers, Michael Harding, says he was told that, in the old days, when an undertaker came into a house the first thing he asked for was a telephone directory to put under the deceased’s head. Is this true?

Methuselah

FuneralTimes | 59

Graham takes a new turn at Coleman Milne C

oleman Milne’s customers will be seeing a lot more of Graham Clow with his step up in role as UK Sales Manager. This came as a result of his predecessor Kevin Heath’s decision to reduce his role with the company.

Graham is a familiar face with existing Coleman Milne customers and, with his considerable experience and comprehensive knowledge of the funeral vehicle sector, we are certain our customers will enjoy a smooth and successful transition to this new arrangement.

Graham has been with the company for 25 years and is dedicated to increasing customer satisfaction for both our new and pre-owned clients, pioneering a new business development strategy as well as sales order process to better suit the fast paced market in which funeral directors operate.

Kevin Heath has decided to gradually reduce the amount of time he will be giving to his role at Coleman Milne and is looking forward to a well-deserved “semiretirement” in which he intends to spend a lot more of his time working on his beloved Mini Cooper S, a project very close to Kevin’s heart, as many customers will be happy to confirm! Kevin, who began working with Coleman Milne in 1989 as Assistant Sales Manager, quickly became a trusted and

Graham Clow, UK Sales Manager respected friend to many customers, sharing his passion for the industry and forging many long-lasting business relationships, which still endure today.

Kevin’s schedule at Coleman Milne will now occupy six days per month, focusing on the Midlands area, whilst the remainder of his responsibilities will now be placed in the careful hands of Graham.

An extremely well respected figure by everyone at Coleman Milne, we would like to take this opportunity on behalf of ourselves, our customers, and the industry at large, to thank Kevin for his years of loyal service and to extend our best wishes to Kevin for the future.

New hearse for Charles Mace and Sons Established in 1894 by George Charles Mace, the firm is now in the fourth generation of family ownership. Currently managed

by Charles Malcolm Mace they provide sensitive and practical help and support to the community. They have recently taken delivery of a fleet of Coleman Milne Mercedes funeral vehicles.

60 | FuneralTimes

Eddie Marsden delivering the fleet to owner Charles Mace

New Mercedes hearse for J & D Lawson Funeral Services Limited

Alastair Lawson taking delivery of a Mercedes Hearse from Tony Kerr, Coleman Milneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales manager for Scotland. Alastair is more than pleased with his purchase and the aftercare services received from Coleman Milne

Dorchester Limousine and Cardinal Hearse for Mashfords M

ashfords Funeral Services is a wellknown, long established, truly independent family business.

The company is owned and managed by Mrs Joyce R. Schofield in partnership with her sister Miss CA Westwood who took over the running of the business upon the death of their father in 1986.

At Mashfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Funeral Services they are proud to serve the local community and offer a complete and comprehensive service. Their brand new Cardinal Hearse and Dorchester Limousine will help them achieve the best and most cost effective service for the people they help every day.

Graham Clow, Coleman Milneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Sales Manager delivering the fleet to Joyce Schofield, a partner at Mashfords Funeral Services

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62 | FuneralTimes

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s Excellence in Funeral Products and Service Finlay Tierney Street Ardee Co. Louth

Tel ROI: 041 6853603 Tel UK/NI: 0044 870 241 0652 Fax: 041 6856353 Mobile: 086 7923472 www.finlaygrp.com www.finlaymemorialservices.ie

Just who is a civil funeral suitable for?

This is a question being asked a lot lately in the Funeral Trade, and Mary Elizabeth Dillon of Civil Funerals Ireland gives us her opinion.

T

he beauty of a civil service, for Mary Elizabeth, lies in its individuality.

On New Years Eve last, Mary Elizabeth carried out a funeral for a 97 year-old lady from Cavan. Mary Elizabeth describes how she led the service having suggested poems and a eulogy, accompanying music chosen by the family which was very suitable for a lady of her age. The family also wished to include prayer as the lady had been a believer however been unable to attend church since she married having been a Catholic marrying a Protestant in the 40’s and wished to avoid inevitable trouble. The undertaker who attended the service was very impressed with the overall picture and especially the personal nature of proceedings.

Less than a week later Mary Elizabeth carried out another service, this time for a 38 year-old man. It was entirely different.

In this case the young man's friends took the lead and Mary Elizabeth, by her own

account, acted more as MC, steering the service rather than leading it. Again, suitable music was chosen and a eulogy was delivered but the service was very brief and it was a full civil service with no religious content. However, as with the lady from Cavan, it was just what the family wanted and they were pleased with the overall service both in content and delivery.

What all this shows is that a Civil Service can be very flexible and can meet the needs of any age group as well as facilitating diverse beliefs, also allowing the family and friend circles to play as much of a part in the service as they wish to. Mary Elizabeth sees her role as a guide, facilitating and delivering individual services. She explains how in her eyes no two people are alike and similarly when it comes to preparing services no two are alike.

Contact Mary Elizabeth Dillon with any queries on T:053 938 9089 or mobile: 087 957 4476

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Funerals conducted throughout Ireland

New Jaguar hearse for James Brodie Funeral Directors and Memorials Ltd.

J

ames Brodie Funeral Directors and Memorials Ltd. cover the West Lothian area and have branches in Armadale, Bathgate, Harthill and Whitburn.

The business, currently run by Jim and Wilma Brodie, was formed in 1921. Their daughter, Sarah, is the fourth generation to work there. Acting as professional independent family funeral directors, they are members of both NAFD and SAIF where Jim is currently the Scottish President.

Jim and Wilma now have two complete fleets of Jaguars to serve the families they take care of. The latest hearse came with high specification including air suspension, satellite navigation, dual climate control, luxury leather, Bluetooth® hands free phone system, LED lighting on the deck and above, heated seats, and alloy wheels. It is powered by the latest economical and low emission Jaguar 3.0 Diesel engine.

Sarah Brodie standing alongside a newly delivered Jaguar XJ6 hearse supplied by Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. We would like to thank James and Wilma for choosing Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. to supply their fleets and wish them every success with their new hearse.

Another ‘Wilcox’ Jaguar hearse for G. Brownless & Son Ltd.

Gordon Brownless and his son, Mark, standing with their new Jaguar Hearse supplied by Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. The photo was taken outside The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle

G

ordon Brownless & Son Ltd. first started business as joiners in 1979. In 1987 they became funeral directors, operating primarily within Barnard Castle and the Teesdale areas.

The family business is run by Gordon, his wife Rita, and son Mark, who is now the second generation within the company.

This will be the second aluminium Jaguar hearse that Gordon has purchased. It 66 | FuneralTimes

comes with high specification including air suspension, large deck, satellite navigation, leather interior, alloy wheels, Bluetooth®, seating for three bearers and a fuel efficient, quiet, 3.0 litre diesel engine.

Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd. would like to thank Gordon, Rita and Mark for their continued business and wish them every success with their new hearse.

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Kick it up a notch

By Jack Adams CFSP, MBIE

Jack is Dodge’s busiest embalming educator and lecturer. Along with working for Dodge as a sales representative in northern Illinois, he is an Embalming Lab Instructor at Worsham College.

Jack Adams, CFSP, MBIE

I was visiting one of the firms in my territory and found out they had a case they had embalmed earlier in the day but there was concern about leakage.

This was a relatively new funeral home whose embalmers had a mix of experience, from many years to first year.

T

hey asked if I’d take a look and see what I thought about the case. The owner was concerned and I could see why. The case was a Hispanic male who weighed about 190 pounds normally. He was in an auto accident and had been kept alive for about three days on life support. The IV injections made the tissues hold more fluid and he looked like he might weigh closer to 250 pounds.

They had performed a complete autopsy on him and he was leaking from some pores, even on the face. The cranial incision was actively leaking and there were signs of pitting edema and swelling in the face and throughout the body. Of course, all the noticeable swelling was on the face and hands. They were not used to embalming with strong solutions and hadn’t seen what happens to such cases after the medical miracle attempts have failed.

I told them that they should be concerned and asked when the visitation was scheduled to start. They said the family wasn’t expecting a viewing but would really like to say their goodbyes. It was about 2 p.m. and the cousin was scheduled for a 6 p.m. visit.

I told them that if they wanted a chance at viewing, they’d need to re-inject the body and try to reduce the swelling. They didn’t have the right stuff to do the job so I called our local warehouse and had them put together an emergency order of Introfiant, Edemaco, Basic Dryene, and SynGel HV. One embalmer went to pick up the good stuff while the young embalmer and I

68 | FuneralTimes

opened up the head and trunk to survey the tissue condition.

The embalming had been done about four hours earlier that day. The cranial incision was leaking large amounts of slightly pink coloured fluid. The inner pressure from the edema was directing fluid out via the incision area. The face and eyes appeared swollen, caused by excess fluid in the tissue.

Fluid was leaking from some of the facial pores. There was no way this tissue would dry for a viewing tomorrow.

We removed the calvarium and found the floor of the skull full of fluid. There was a powdered drying product in the cranial cavity that was covered with fluid. We removed and discarded a balled up piece of cotton saturated in body fluids. We had 4 oz. of Basic Dryene which was then used to begin treating the inner cranial tissue.

I began wiping up all the fluid in the head and on the tissue while the young embalmer began opening up the chest. There was fluid leaking from the corners of the mouth and nose. This minor purge action suggested fluid in the abdomen and perhaps gas build up. The sternum was removed and, sure enough, the chest cavity was filling up with body fluid and chemicals.

This reminded me of an edematous autopsied case we treated years ago. Back then, we had time so we left a dry cavity open overnight and when we returned the following day, it was not only filled with fluid, it was overflowing. The edema found

all the open incised tissue and made its way out through the path of least resistance. This case was slightly different. Body fluid and cavity fluid leaking from the viscera bag were filling up the cavity. We removed the viscera bag, aspirated the cavity, and absorbed all the excess fluid with large cotton swabs.

A quick review of the tissue showed wet, unembalmed tissue that was certainly leaking but could also go bad soon.

Letting it go and doing nothing wasn’t an option. It would be a Russian roulette kind of move. We mixed a hypodermic solution in the embalming machine consisting of 16 oz. of Introfiant, 16 oz. of Permaglo 35, and 16 oz. of Permaflow V-2. There wasn’t anything else left on the shelf. The supply pickings were getting mighty slim.

We hypoed the sidewalls of the autopsy and any tissue wide enough to hold the hypo trocar diameter. We raised the axillary arteries and found the carotids. The right carotid was damaged. Then I heard a car pull into the garage. The cavalry had arrived with the needed chemical ammunition.

The supplies that now arrived included Introfiant, Permaglo 35, Edemaco, Feature Builder Firming, Inr-Tone Latin dye, Basic Dryene, SynGel HV, and a jug of V-P (Viscerock Plus).

Basic Dryene and SynGel HV are the two ingredients which, when mixed together, make what I call a super gel (mix equal parts together to maintain a gel consistency).

This super gel can be brushed on poorly embalmed moist tissue to preserve and cauterize.

We needed to re-inject what we could using a waterless solution designed to penetrate and saturate this delicate tissue. We started by placing thin layers of cotton saturated with Basic Dryene over all the raw tissue of the open calvarium. We also placed a Dryene

pack over the thin muscular tissue of the calvarium and the removed sternum. This small amount of tissue, if left untreated, could very likely decompose and give off enough foul odour to become a reason for a mental anguish lawsuit.

Both eyes needed preservation, they were both swollen and soft. I placed cotton in the eyes covering the full eye socket and saturated it with some Permaglo 35. We injected both arms utilizing the axillary artery. This solution consisted of 24 oz. of Introfiant, 16 oz. of Permaglo 35, 16 oz. of Metaflow, and 16oz. of Rectifiant, with 1 oz. of Inr-Tone Latin dye and 16 oz. of warm water. This was injected with an old Portiboy at about 20 lbs. of pressure and an eyeball approach to a low flow. (Eyeballing for flow is when you hold the arterial tube pointed into the machine and turn the stopcock on until you see a flow that doesn’t look to be too high or a stream too much to cause swelling or damage tiny vessels.)

When embalming this type of difficult case, their old Portiboy didn’t stand up to the challenge. They were unable to reach the higher pressure with the low flow. The embalmer tried forcing some chemical into the tissue by raising the flow and this, of course, caused swelling and immediately the machine was turned off. The result was a swollen head that was not preserved and worse, the tissues were leaking. The arms received enough of the stronger chemical to be embalmed and began drying. The emptied abdominal cavity was dried out and we hypoed the sidewalls and any tissue that needed additional preservation.

A 50/50 mix of Introfiant and Metaflow was used to hypo. This 50/50 mix allowed the strong Introfiant to penetrate evenly into the tissue as opposed to being walled off, as if the solution was just straight Introfiant.

FuneralTimes | 69

When the sidewalls and abdomen were finished being hypoed, all the tissue took on an even pink color. Hypodermically injecting straight arterial or cavity chemical with no co-injection chemical can leave areas which don’t receive the preservative even when a fanlike motion is used with the hypo trocar due to the ‘walling off ’ action. This uneven walling off effect can leave preserved tissue alongside tissue which is beginning to decompose.

The carotid arteries were accessed and we were ready to try injecting. The left side of the head was showing some signs of receiving the first injection, but there was no firming and no drying of tissue. The right side showed little if any sign of preservation with plenty of signs of edema and soft, unembalmed tissue. We injected the left carotid with a mixture of 16 oz. of Introfiant, 16 oz. of Permaglo 35, 16oz. of Edemaco and 16 oz. of Rectifiant. The old Portiboy couldn’t deliver the pressure needed and the flow was impossible to control. I reverted to an old school flow control by using the stopcock turned ¾ of a turn. I also turned the stopcock on and off to mimic a pulsator.

The internal carotid was clamped and secure, so the vascular pressure was enough to successfully re-inject the left side of the head. Once the left side had received enough preservative to preserve and begin firming, we tried the right carotid.

This right side, or viewing side, carotid was damaged during the autopsy and tough to access. It was so damaged that we had to raise the internal carotid from the cranial cavity and inject it in reverse.

That is, injecting toward the face from the open cranium. The internal carotid was raised adjacent to where the stub came out.

Just lateral to where the stub came out, the calcified tissue was cracked open using needle-nose pliers. You can place the pliers on the pointed bony process just lateral to the Circle of Willis. This calcified tissue can be cracked with a little pressure and then you can access the internal carotid using an aneurism hook. At this point you’ll notice the artery is double the size of the stub that we normally clamp off. We were able to use a 1/8 inch arterial tube, injecting downward 70 | FuneralTimes

from the calvarium. You don’t want to place the tube in too deep, 1/2 inch is good, before clamping and tying off. If we insert the tube too deep, it will bypass some of the tributaries that reach the face.

While slowly injecting the right side of the head, I began putting digital pressure on the left side of the face, including the eye and cheek. The left side was no longer fragile, the waterless embalming made it ideal to begin decreasing the swelling. I opened the eyelid and applied pressure directly on the eye ball for about a minute and it stayed reduced and returned to its normal size.

The Edemaco kicks up the firming speed while the entire solution preserves and shrinks the edematous face. The inside of the calvarium was no longer pink or red with moisture. While the solution was drying internally, the Dryene pack was cauterizing the leaky autopsy incision. The right side absorbed almost one quart of the strong waterless solution. It actually swelled up some but the tissue was very evenly saturated. Pressure was applied to the temples, eyes, and cheeks. The reduction was happening in real time.

It was about 5 p.m. now and the family was coming in at 6 to decide if they were going to have a viewing. The entire face, neck, and head were swollen from being on life support for three days before death.

We put Inr-Seel in the foramen and used it to fill the cut bone of the calvarium after attaching it with a screw skull clamp. I don’t think it matters what method you secure the calvarium with as long as it’s well secured without any motion. The autopsy was still open so we took advantage to channel the swollen neck using a baby trocar. After channelling, large cotton strips were placed in the neck, and immediate reduction was noticed.

I placed a water collar around the neck up high, right below the jaw line. The cotton strips acted as wicks and with increased action due to the pressure of the water collar. The facial tissue was reacting like we wanted it to, that is, it was firming, drying, and being reduced. We began drying the neck with Basic Dryene and used the super gel to brush on any tissue that was in doubt

of being preserved. We brushed this super gel solution on the sidewalls and any raw tissue too thin to access with a hypo trocar.

We hypodermically injected the legs, buttocks, and sidewalls with an Introfiant and Metaflow solution. This mix penetrates evenly into tissue instead of fluid only being injected that has a tendency to be so strong it walls itself off and results in gaps between trocar paths that can begin decomposition.

All moist tissue was brushed with the super gel and then shrink wrapped. The case was now made leak-proof and odourless with the wrap. The body was placed in a union all and we added some Viscerock Plus inside, to soak up any moisture as well as add additional preservative.

We now had a well embalmed, leak-proof body, even though we had to kick it up a notch and re-inject the body with a drying solution. The brother-in-law of the deceased came in at 6 p.m. as we finished suturing and did a final bathing and shampooing of the body. We placed a sheet over him and wheeled him out to a small cosmetic room adjacent to the prep room. He didn’t take

much time deciding he would suggest an open casket to the family. He thanked us all.

He had seen the deceased at the hospital and didn’t think anything could be done to make him viewable.

The funeral director told him the full story about how I stopped over and he was very grateful. It was a good effort but it probably wasn’t going to happen under normal circumstances at the funeral home. I believe they are now into kicking it up a notch even to the point of a re-injection. By the time they realised the full condition of the body, the arterial injection had been completed.

It is never too late to improve the situation and sometimes save the case and provide good service to be able to serve the family in future.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list for the complementary Dodge Magazine or would like to discuss any of the products mentioned in this article, please contact us: Shepherds Mortuary & Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford. Ph. 00353 43 33 49702/00353 87 2486668

FuneralTimes | 71

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FuneralTimes | 73

Dr Bill Webster When you’re feeling sad and blue I

t’s that time of the year again. What a silly statement, because if you think about it, every day can be described as “that time of the year.” But somehow February seems to be a particularly difficult point in the calendar for many people. I read recently that the most depressing day of the year is actually January 24, because it is then that the Christmas season Visa bill comes in surprisingly high. And we often carry that over into the next month when many experience what has been described as “the February Blues.”

The syndrome formerly known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression related to changes in seasons.

Recent changes to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (or DSM), the bible to the mental health world, has meant the phenomenon is now called “depression with a seasonal pattern.”

Admittedly, there has not been universal acceptance of the new definitions in DSM-5, including the one on grief which I will write about in the next issue. Dr. Allen Frances, psychiatry professor emeritus at Duke University who chaired the DSM-4 task force, stated that the approval of the 5th edition of the DSM manual marked “a sad day for psychiatry.”

But for an estimated three to four per cent of the population, this SAD experience is very real. It seems to be related to the amount of sunlight that you are exposed to.

That explains why SAD begins and ends at about the same time every year, for most people their symptoms starting around December and continuing into the winter months.

What are the indicators of SAD? People

74 | FuneralTimes

with the syndrome often feel tired and lethargic; they may seem withdrawn to family, friends and colleagues; they may have less interest in activities that they usually enjoy. Some symptoms may include: • Irritability • Tiredness or low energy • Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day • Feeling hopeless or worthless • Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed • Having problems with sleeping or oversleeping • Feeling sluggish or agitated • Having difficulty concentrating • Problems getting along with other people • Hypersensitivity to rejection • Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates • Weight gain Many of these symptoms are similar to those of major clinical depression. I am not a medical doctor, and this article is written for information only. I always strongly advise people to talk to their medical health practitioner if they are experiencing any or all of the symptoms listed above.

While the exact cause of SAD is unknown, researchers believe the condition may be related to the body’s internal clock, which regulates temperature and hormone production. Nerve centres in the brain control our daily moods and rhythms, and are stimulated by the amount of light that enters our eyes. During the night and in periods of reduced light (such as occurs in winter) the brain produces a hormone called melatonin, and SAD may be related to these

increased levels of melatonin in the body.

Accordingly, on dull winter days, people with the condition may have difficulty waking up, or may feel drowsy or “down” during the day. Interestingly, in Alaska, where there is very little daylight during the winter, over nine per cent of the population suffers from SAD. There are several forms of therapies currently available to help people with SAD. The most effective treatments seem to include a combination of light therapy, medications, counselling and complementary therapies (again, I remind my readers that I am not trained in all these therapies or qualified to comment on medications. I am simply bringing some recent research to your attention to possibly encourage those experiencing these symptoms to seek qualified professional help.)

Light therapy is becoming more recognized as an important tool against SAD. Research has demonstrated how daily exposure to bright light (phototherapy) may help

balance certain brain chemicals and reset body rhythms. My own brother-in-law has suffered greatly with symptoms of SAD over the years, and has found tremendous relief with this remedy. Usually, light therapy involves sitting in front of a “light box” with a high-intensity fluorescent light source meant to simulate daylight.

For some people, 30 minutes to two hours of treatment with bright light may be as effective as medications.

This light therapy is not without some problems, however, and may cause sideeffects including eye strain, headaches, nausea and agitation, which again focuses on the importance of checking with an appropriately qualified doctor.

Some antidepressant medications may be appropriate for use to treat people with more severe cases of SAD. But as in all cases with medications, ask your medical doctor or health-care professional for more information about medications and their potential side-effects if you feel you are suffering from SAD. My reason for

FuneralTimes | 75

mentioning this so consistently in this article is simple. With many drugs now freely available over the Internet, I believe it is crucial for people to be aware of all the implications of taking these medications and chemicals, and your own doctor is the one to give you the best opinion on their use.

In counselling, the field in which I feel more qualified to comment, cognitive therapy can help people with SAD learn about their condition and discover ways to manage their symptoms and prevent recurring episodes of depression. One of my “life lessons” in counselling has been the realisation that there is a “reason for every reaction.” We need to understand the why behind the behaviour, before rushing to find the how to alleviate the symptoms. Our reactions never happen in a vacuum. So, why is this person displaying the SAD symptoms? Sometimes, encouraging family’s participation in the counselling can be helpful, not just to learn how to cope with a loved one’s behaviours, but to understand the reasons behind them.

Exercise therapy and daily physical activity can also be a useful way to help people overcome fatigue and depression, especially if exercise occurs during the day or near light sources. Complementary therapies such as natural medicine, herbal remedies and homeopathic medicine may also be effective in treating symptoms of SAD. But once again, I must emphasise the importance of the person talking to their doctor, practitioner or pharmacist before taking any such products, as these remedies may interact with prescription or nonprescription drugs. Indeed, I have read that if you are already using light therapy, certain natural remedies and some antidepressant medications may increase your sensitivity to light. If you are affected by SAD, or even just feeling “down” this season, here are some things that can help.

Daily exercise Regular physical activity helps fight fatigue and depression, especially if you exercise during the day or near light sources. Keep in mind that outdoor light, even when the sky is overcast, is often brighter than light boxes, so an hour spent outside during the day can help 76 | FuneralTimes

ease symptoms of SAD and prevent episodes of depression. Find an outdoor hobby that you can enjoy throughout the winter months such as skating, skiing or walking.

Seek the sun Try to go outside as often as possible especially during the cold winter months.

Even weak sunlight and light reflected off snow can increase your exposure to light and help ease symptoms of SAD. Arrange your home or office to maximize your exposure to light. Open blinds, trim tree branches that block sunlight or add skylights to your home. Sit closer to bright sunlit windows for reading, eating or working while at home or in the office.

Take a holiday We all have to endure the long winter ... so if you can, go to some sunny resort or on a cruise for a week’s holiday to enjoy a dose of sunlight.

Be aware of your moods Self-awareness can alleviate some of the feelings of distress during these seasons.

Be aware of your moods and energy level and attempt to maintain perspective. But remember that SAD is not your fault; it is a condition that can be treated.

You are not alone SAD is still not fully understood, but statistics indicate that about three to four per cent of the population suffers from this major depressive disorder. So, if you are experiencing feelings that are greater than mild depression, do not be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your friends, your family and your doctor. Using your support network can help decrease your feelings of isolation or depression.

I love this quote by Albert Camus: “In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger, something better, pushing right back.”

Hang in! Spring is on the way.

Dodge Safety Data Sheets (replace MSDSs) (Available at www.dodgeco.com)

All employees must have access to these by June 1, 2015

W

ith the adoption of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), your business will be required to replace Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) with the new Safety Data Sheets (SDS) by June 1, 2015. MSDS sheets are basically the same thing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; documents that outline the dangers, composition, safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals and substances. SDS sheets are constructed and formatted to conform to GHS and require 16 standardised sections arranged in a strict order and include pictograms to allow hazards of the material to be identified quickly.

Dodge has completed converting ALMOST ALL MSDSs to SDSs and they are available on our website. Please keep in mind that if Dodge is not the manufacturer of a product, we are at the mercy of the manufacturer and have to wait for them to provide us with an updated SDS. Go to www.dodgeco.com and click on the Safety Data Sheets link at the very bottom

of the home page. That brings you to the GHS timeline and below that, pictures of all products. Clicking on the product will bring up the SDS (if available).

We suggest printing an SDS for every product being used in your funeral home and keeping them in a designated area. You may also make them available electronically.

Either way, make sure all employees know where they are and how to access to them.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list for the complementary Dodge Magazine which is printed quarterly, or would like to discuss any of the products mentioned in this article, please contact us on the number listed below: Shepherds Mortuary & Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford.

Ph. 00353 43 3349702/00353 87 2486668

Obituary

We would like to pass on our deepest sympathy to Dominic Muldoon and family of Aughnacloy, on the passing of their mother, Mary.

FuneralTimes | 77

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