Cor, it's really chilly today, proper frosty. Winter at last has arrived it seems.
I have been a little slower at work, it's quite nice to have a day off during the week every now and then. As a self employed embalmer, that doesn't pay the bills though.
I have had three people contact me in this week alone, to ask about watching me work because they might like to become an embalmer. I explain that unless they are already on the embalming course, are a nurse or have a job in another relevant career, they are not allowed into my theatre. This of course goes down like a tonne of lead. I understand their annoyance. I mean, how are you supposed to know if it's right for you unless you can see it being done, in the flesh (scuse the expression)?
I advise them that their nearest college is the place to find that out and explain about the embalming courses, fees, experience and previous educational background that is needed. Each college has their own acceptance levels so I won't detail it here but the list of BIE accredited tutors can be found by asking the BIE. I also advise them that it's really hard to get a position as an embalmer, certainly more so in these times of high levels of unemployment. It is equally as hard to find a placement to gain the necessary practical experience, to train as an embalmer.
I enjoy showing my work to relevant professionals, nurses usually as part of their training, and doctors often ask about my work when they come to see other deceased clients as part of the chain of paperwork and certification requirements. I won't have under 18 year olds in the theatre though, no matter how much they complain to their schools. Having had plenty of adults faint on me, there's no way I am showing a teenager!
hello you must be a harden person to do this work , can you tell me how many people do go in the embalming room , and is dressing done in same room and by how many people ? john
ReplyDeleteI dont feel I am a hard or hardened person because of this work John. I feel I am a caring and compassionate person who is there to do the one last act for someones body. This means their loved ones can see them before the funeral and I hope this brings them comfort.
ReplyDeleteI suppose I have a strong stomach, as I see all sorts of things in my work.
Usually there is only the embalmer in the room and the dressing all depends on the funeral home. In my place of work, the dressing is completed in the same room as the embalming and is usually carried out by myself and a colleague. Its nicer to have someone helping you dress the deceased because of the sheer weight of someone. Trying to get a dinner suit on a portly gentleman, including a cumberband, needs a more then a couple of strong arms.
thank you thats nice , its a shame that we look after our bodies all our lifes then die and all these horible things happen to it
ReplyDeleteIts natural John. All part of being a living organism. Embalming halts the process but only for a very short time. The circle of life, back to mother earth.
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