Complete Story
01/30/2025
Seeing Is Healing: The Neuroscience of Grief, the Data on Viewing, and the Role of Embalming
Discover how science supports the heart of funeral service. In this this thought-provoking session, Dr. Damon de la Cruz—a licensed embalmer and molecular biologist—bridges the gap between neuroscience and embalming to reveal how the brain truly experiences grief.
Through a blend of research, real-world insight, and ethical reflection, Dr. de la Cruz uncovers how concepts like ambiguous loss, visual confirmation, and neural completion help explain why viewing and preparation matter so deeply. Attendees will leave with fresh, science-backed ways to communicate the value of embalming, strengthen family trust, and support healthier grief outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
- A deeper understanding of how the brain processes loss—and how funeral care can promote healing.
- Tools to discuss the value of viewing and embalming with confidence and credibility.
- Insight into NFDA research connecting funeral practices to emotional and neurological recovery.
- Practical, ethical approaches to serving families through science-informed care.
Dr. Damon de la Cruz
Director of Education
Frigid Fluid Company
