Kubler-Ross identifies the five stages of dying of which many terminally ill patients progress through when they are told about their illness. The stages go in progression through denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. However, these stages are not absolute and rigid but fluid and last for different periods of time. They may exist side by side or one may experience any number out of the five. "The one thing though that usually persists through all of the stages is hope." (138)

Kubler-Ross describes the stage of denial and isolation as a "healthy way of dealing with the uncomfortable and painful situ

I learned many things. However, not once during all of hours together did we talk about the "horse on the table". The attitudes and beliefs about death in my family were strong and pervasive and at the time I had not even though to question them. After reading this book, I found myself morning the missed opportunity of not hearing my grandmother's feelings about her death. I am confident that in the future, I have a lot more insight into how to handle the various communication and interpersonal difficulties inherent in this very stressful time. Above all, this book made me "think". Although I've finished reading it, I certainly haven't finished thinking about it.

most cases, is a temporary defense that is usually replaced by at least partial acceptance. The first reaction of disbelief, the "no it's not true, no, it cannot involve me" usually gives way to the realization that there is no mistake and the inevitability of pending death is true. Once the fantasy is given up, anger, rage, resentment and envy seeps in and the "why me and not you" reaction takes hold.

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Approximate Word count = 1058
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)