OUR PROGRAMS

DEFINITION OF DYING DEFIANTLY

“Dying defiantly” is a phrase that can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context. One interpretation is that it means to face death with courage and determination, refusing to give up or give in to the disease or illness. It can also mean to live life to the fullest, even in the face of death, and to make the most of every moment. There are many examples of people who have faced death defiantly, such as those who have fought cancer or other terminal illnesses with strength and courage. Some people choose to live their lives in a way that is “dying defiantly,” by pursuing their dreams and passions, even when faced with adversity or obstacles. Whatever the interpretation, “dying defiantly” is a powerful phrase that speaks to the human spirit and our ability to overcome even the most difficult challenges.

HELP US HELP OTHERS

The flagship program for Dying Defiantly is HELP US HELP OTHERS. This program offers anyone suffering from a terminal diagnosis of any kind a completely individualized counseling program, that focuses on the mental and physical wellbeing of the individual and their families. This program is constantly evolving as every individual’s needs are different. In addition to that foundational mission, we also provide estate planning, family and bereavement counseling, community support groups and various other resources for the entire family!

We provide all of our services at no cost!

EXCURSIONS

At Dying Defiantly, we believe that no one should be limited by physical constraints, especially when it comes to fulfilling their dreams. That’s why we have harnessed the incredible potential of virtual reality technology to provide a gateway to exotic places, thrilling adventures, and the wonders of the world for those who can’t travel due to their terminal illness..

Imagine the sheer awe as our extraordinary heroes don our state-of-the-art virtual reality equipment, instantly being transported to breathtaking destinations they’ve always dreamed of visiting. Feel the warmth of the tropical sun as they stroll along the sandy beaches of Bali, soak in the vibrant colors of the ancient ruins in Machu Picchu, or take a peaceful gondola ride through the iconic canals of Venice.

But it doesn’t stop at merely seeing these wonders; it goes far beyond that. With the magic of virtual reality, our brave patients can fully immerse themselves in the adventure. They can soar through the sky, paragliding over the stunning Swiss Alps, or dive deep into the mesmerizing coral reefs of the Maldives, swimming alongside graceful sea creatures.

Every moment becomes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel alive, to experience the rush of adrenaline and pure joy that travel and exploration bring. Our goal is to provide an escape from the confines of illness, offering not just entertainment but a profound sense of freedom, empowerment, and limitless possibilities.

And the most incredible part? You can play an essential role in making this happen. Your support fuels our mission, allowing us to acquire cutting-edge virtual reality equipment, create captivating virtual environments, and touch countless lives with the joy of these extraordinary experiences.

Together, we can brighten the lives of those who need it most, granting them the chance to embark on incredible adventures, see breathtaking sights, and feel the magic of new worlds. Let us bridge the gap between dreams and reality for these remarkable individuals, igniting a spark of hope, inspiration, and resilience within their hearts.

Let’s defy limitations, one virtual BUCKET LIST at a time.

SHERPA PROGRAM

Peer-To-Peer Counseling

Getting the support needed after a terminal diagnosis is so very important. Peer-to-peer counseling is a great way to connect with others who have been through similar experiences. The SHERPA Program offers one-to-one mentoring and support for anyone affected by a terminal diagnosis – including patients, families, and friends — by people who have similar life experiences. Matches are customized based on similar diagnoses, treatment, as well as life circumstances, and values. Sessions are available online and over the phone at your convenience. There’s no two ways about it. A TERMINAL DIAGNOSIS is a difficult journey from the start. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a TERMINAL DIAGNOSIS, it can be so helpful to talk to someone else who’s been through the same thing.

What is a Sherpa?

The word Sherpa originally meant “people from the East” and is pronounced “shar-wa” by the Sherpa themselves. The Sherpa village is the starting point for scaling Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha or Chomolungma, whose height is roughly 29,000 feet or five and a half miles. Your terminal diagnosis is your Mount Everest, and your Sherpa has traveled the same path before you.

Traits of a Sherpa

Sherpas:

  • Walk the road themselves before guiding others.
  • Are called by the mountain, not by coercion.
  • Prepare the way for a flock of climbers.
  • Are hard-working, peaceful, and courageous.
  • Lead by example into places of familiarity and safety

 

Sherpas lead those less experienced to the summit. The summit is transformational for all those who commit to the climb. This is what it is to be a Dying Defiantly Sherpa, to help transform the lives of those you guide, to lift them up, so when its their turn they can help lift others up as well!

TRANSITIONS

Every year, approximately 200,000 men and women leave U.S. military service and return to life as civilians, a process known as the military to civilian transition. Of those 200,000 nearly 2% or 4000 men and women leave the military due to or with a terminal illness. As one might think these 4000 men and women are treated and supported while in the service, but that it not the case upon separation. If there is no service-related connection to their illness, there is no financial support, and the VA medical system is on a co-pay basis. There are some federal programs that help healthy or even disabled veterans attain employment, but no programs for those facing terminal diagnosis.

TRANSITIONS is a Dying Defiantly program that begins to help from the point of diagnosis, coming along side these estimated 4000 men and women to help navigate the road ahead of them. We assist with support and counseling, benefit filing, and the connection to additional support groups, like the VFW and American Legion in the local areas as they separate from the service. This program proves vital in the mental health and family wellbeing during this hard and arduous journey.

TRANSITIONS is there for the entire journey and long after the veteran’s death with continued support for their families. Through VA burial arrangements, family benefits, and the connection of partner charities that will continue to help support the family on the road ahead.

TRANSFORMATIONAL TREK

The TRANSFORMATIONAL TREK is a Dying Defiantly program. that takes a small group of terminally diagnosed individuals on trips designed to help them be themselves and find support they need to find and be their very best in the face of death. These trips are an opportunity for them to hang out with people who are like them, think like they do, act like they do, or want to be like them. It is a space of no judgement and unconditional support in some of the most beautiful environments in the world.

 
This is not for the faint of heart, and will take everything you can muster but I promise this will be a transformational trek that will change the way you look at living your life!
 
The Next TRANSFORMATIONAL TREK is scheduled for June 2024 and will be on the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon.

SCHOLARSHIPS

If you are interested in applying for the future scholarships of $500 – $1000, please click HERE and select “Interested in Scholarship Information” on the drop-down menu.