The Moth Remembering Our Loved Ones Through Story: The Moth Radio Hour
8 snips
Mar 3, 2026 
Elizabeth Gilbert, bestselling memoirist who cared for her partner through terminal illness; Adrienne Lotson, cultural anthropologist and chaplain in training; Sharon D'Orsie, writer who navigated caregiving for her mother. They trade vivid stories about nursing home life, chaplaincy challenges, and witnessing a loved one’s final days. Short, poignant, and often surprisingly humorous reflections on memory and care.
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Adventures With A Feisty Mother
- Sharon D'Orsie moved her widowed mother into her home and turned outings into comic, memorable adventures like dog sledding and a Reykjavik spa mishap.
- As dementia took hold, Sharon comforted her mother by promising St. Peter lemon drop martinis, and her mother died immediately after hearing it.
Create Compliant Workarounds To Build Trust
- When rules block helpful connection, find a compliant workaround that preserves the relationship.
- Adrienne solved 'no gambling' rules by collecting pennies after games so Jimmy could engage and open up.
Bible Study Backfires Then Teaches
- Adrienne's attempt to invigorate Bible study with new hymns provoked a slow 'revolt' as residents left, teaching her to meet them where they are.
- Joni explained they read the 23rd Psalm weekly because it had deep personal meaning tied to a spouse.
