A Parent or Child's Farewell: The Funeral
The following episode contains sensitive subject matter for someone that has lost a loved one. We have interviewed professional experts on each topic, and taken extra care to cover the subjects with sensitivity.
How do we prepare for the unthinkable? The passing of a child is a horror scenario - but this week's guest is here to help us find a gentle approach. When the most tragic of events might happen, how do we handle the funeral process?
This is Part 3 in our Bereavement Series.
In this episode we are joined by Sonja Smith, one of South Africa's most experienced undertakers. With her gentle approach and sensitive understanding, she highlights the key elements that we need to consider, in case a child or parent pass on.
Brought to you by Epi-Max Baby & Junior - Our Family, for Your Family. Sponsored by Curaprox and supported by Jacaranda FM.
ABOUT SONJA SMITH
Sonja Smith is the founder and MD of Sonja Smith Funeral Group.
She has a passion for being of service to people in times of grief. The journey has been long and the challenges many, but with Sonja’s unique ‘velvet touch’ approach, the company has grown from strength to strength. They currently have 13 branches & franchises in Gauteng and the Southern Cape area.
Sonja has received many Accolades. Her greatest achievement to date, is the historic breakthrough she has made in challenging the Constitution of SA with regards to the rights of parents in the case of pregnancy loss. She was the driving force behind a groundbreaking court case, from the High Court to the Constitutional Court. As a result, bereaved parents now have clarity and a judgement that there is no restriction nor prohibition should they wish to elect to bury their baby, irrespective of the stage of gestation (unless there are any limitations imposed by municipal regulations).
Her endearment, personal touch and solace offered, along with the trendsetting influences and corporate social investment efforts, are unparalleled in the funeral industry. Her work in the Alzheimer's & Dementia environment, in particular multi-sensory rooms, is commendable.
Sonja is a regular speaker on radio, television, at seminars and universities.
She is happily married to Rian Janse van Rensburg, a certified financial planner. They have 3 children and 4 grandchildren and live in Centurion.
Sonja Smith is known as a nationally recognised expert on issues of death & dying.